This dish is a yummy combination of tender chicken and flavorful rice cooked slowly in a tangy lemon sauce. It’s simple and lets the slow cooker do all the work!
I love how that bright lemon flavor shines through, making every bite feel fresh! Plus, it’s perfect for lazy days when you want a tasty meal without much fuss! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish lean. If you’re looking for something different, try thighs for a juicier option. You can also use frozen chicken; just adjust cooking time as needed.
Rice: Long grain white rice is great for this recipe since it cooks evenly. If you want a healthier choice, swap it for brown rice. Just be aware it may need a little extra liquid and longer cooking time.
Lemon: Fresh lemon adds brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch—just use a little less since it’s more concentrated. I often prefer fresh for the zest as it really boosts flavor!
Herbs: Dried Italian herbs provide a nice blend of flavor. If you have fresh herbs, feel free to use them! Fresh herbs will give a more vibrant taste. Just remember to use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried!
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken in the slow cooker is not to overcook it. Follow these tips:
- Cook on low for the best results. If you’re in a hurry, you can use high, but monitor closely.
- Check the temperature with a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices in.
Fluff the rice after removing the chicken, adding extra flavors like Parmesan can really elevate the dish!
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and you’ll let it cook in the slow cooker for 4 to 5 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high. So, you can set it and forget it while you enjoy your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Start by lightly greasing your slow cooker with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray. This will help keep everything from sticking.
2. Mix the Flavors:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped onion, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
3. Add the Rice:
Now, add the uncooked rice to the flavorful liquid mixture. Give it a good stir so the rice gets coated well with the sauce.
4. Layer the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture in the slow cooker. You want the chicken to sit above the rice for even cooking.
5. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts. This helps keep the chicken juicy and adds delicious flavor.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’re looking for the chicken to be fully cooked and the rice to be tender.
7. Fluff and Serve:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken and fluff the rice with a fork. This step is essential to avoid clumping and make the rice nice and fluffy!
8. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you like, you can stir in the Parmesan cheese into the rice for a creamy texture and extra flavor. It’s optional but highly recommended!
9. Final Touch:
Return the chicken to the top of the rice and garnish with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
10. Time to Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, easy slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice with family and friends. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Can I Substitute Brown Rice for White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! However, keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. You’ll need to add about 30 minutes to the cooking time and ensure there’s enough liquid. You may need about 3.5 cups of chicken broth instead of 3 cups.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Breasts?
You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier flavor. If using frozen chicken, simply adjust the cooking time; it may need an additional hour on low.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth if the rice has dried out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. Just ensure they are cut into small pieces and add them to the slow cooker with the rice mixture for even cooking.
