As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I absolutely adore my Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. With tender chicken and fragrant rice infused with zesty lemon and fresh herbs, it’s a quick solution for those hectic days. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare! You can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—spending time with your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a lifesaver for busy days. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few minutes of prep. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas. Plus, the combination of lemon and herbs creates a delightful flavor that will impress your family. It’s a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, making mealtime a joy!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need for your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They become tender and juicy as they cook.
Long-grain white rice: This rice cooks perfectly in the slow cooker, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Chicken broth: Adds depth and richness to the dish. You can use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
Lemon: Both the juice and zest brighten the dish, giving it that refreshing zing.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
Dried thyme: This herb adds an earthy note, enhancing the overall taste.
Dried rosemary: A fragrant herb that pairs wonderfully with chicken and adds a touch of elegance.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors together.
Fresh parsley: A lovely garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.

Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition. If you’re looking for a twist, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs beforehand. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.

How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering dish. Trust me, it’s as easy as pie!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. I like to give them a little pat with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps them brown nicely, even in the slow cooker. You want them to be the star of your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice!

Step 2: Mix the Broth and Seasonings

In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until well mixed. The aroma will be heavenly! This mixture is what infuses the chicken and rice with that delightful flavor.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Pour the broth and seasoning mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is well coated. This is where the magic begins! The flavors will meld beautifully as it cooks.

Step 4: Add the Rice

Next, sprinkle the long-grain white rice on top of the chicken and broth mixture. Don’t stir it in just yet! The rice will absorb all those delicious flavors as it cooks, creating a comforting base for your meal.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. I usually opt for low, as it allows the flavors to deepen. Just imagine coming home to that tantalizing aroma wafting through your house!

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid. Fluff the rice with a fork, mixing it gently with the chicken. This step is crucial for that perfect texture. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Your family will be begging for seconds!

Tips for Success

Marinate the chicken for a few hours in lemon juice and herbs for extra flavor.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
For a heartier meal, add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers.
Don’t skip the fresh parsley; it brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days—perfect for lunch!

Equipment Needed

Slow Cooker: The star of the show! Any size will do, but a 6-quart is perfect for this recipe.
Mixing Bowl: For combining your broth and seasonings. A large measuring cup works too!
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accuracy, but eyeballing can work in a pinch.
Fork: For fluffing the rice and serving. A simple tool that does wonders!

Variations

Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Whole Grain Rice: Swap long-grain white rice for brown rice or quinoa for added nutrition.
One-Pot Meal: Toss in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a colorful, nutrient-packed dish.

Serving Suggestions

Fresh Salad: Pair your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine complements the lemony flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Garnish with extra lemon slices and parsley for a vibrant, inviting look.

FAQs about Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just remember to increase the cooking time by about an hour. Frozen chicken will still turn out tender and juicy in your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth works great too! It will still provide a rich flavor to your dish. You can also use water, but consider adding extra seasonings for depth.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep everything the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the slow cooker in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you when you get home.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. They’ll add color and nutrition to your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice.

Final Thoughts

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and my Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice embodies that spirit. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a chance to gather around the table with family, sharing stories and laughter. The ease of preparation means you can focus on what truly matters—creating memories. Each bite is a burst of flavor, reminding us that simple ingredients can lead to extraordinary moments. So, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this dish is sure to bring warmth and happiness to your home. Enjoy every delicious moment!

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: A Flavorful Delight!

Author: Chef Shana
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious and easy-to-make slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken and flavorful rice infused with lemon and herbs.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Pour the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Add the rice on top of the chicken and broth mixture.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Slow Cooker, Lemon Herb, Chicken, Rice, Easy Recipe