Imagine coming home to the warm, inviting aroma of Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. This cozy dish is perfect for those busy days when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this recipe checks all the boxes—it’s flavorful, comforting, and oh-so-easy!
Why Make This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work!
- Family Favorite: The zesty lemon and herb flavors please both kids and adults alike.
- Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients mean you won’t break the bank.
- Comforting: With tender chicken and fluffy rice, it’s like a warm hug on a plate.
This recipe stands out because it combines fresh flavors with heartwarming comfort, making it a perfect choice for any dinner table. The satisfaction of both cooking and sharing this meal is sure to bring back lovely memories.
Ingredients
- For the chicken and rice:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)
How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Prep the Slow Cooker: Start by spraying your slow cooker with a bit of cooking spray or lightly greasing it. This helps with easy cleanup later.
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the rinsed rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, dried thyme, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Add Chicken & Broth: Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Pour the chicken broth over everything and drizzle with lemon juice and zest. This little step is key for vibrant flavor!
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and rice is fully cooked. This makes your home smell amazing!
- Shred and Mix: Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir everything to combine, ensuring the rice is well mixed with the chicken and herbs.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Presentation: Serve the chicken and rice mixture in a large bowl or on a family-style platter.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Pairings: Enjoy it with a light salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely. Then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in individual portions for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or basil on hand, feel free to swap them in for a burst of flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Zest: Adding lemon zest really enhances the citrusy aroma and taste!
- Adjust the Liquid: If you prefer your rice a bit wetter, feel free to add an extra splash of broth.
Variation
- Gluten-Free: Swap the long-grain rice for a gluten-free alternative like quinoa or cauliflower rice.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas and add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Just remember that brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time to about 6 to 7 hours.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should shred easily when it’s fully cooked, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Make sure to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Reheat gently to maintain the best texture.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings families together. With its delightful flavors and simple preparation, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home. We’d love to hear your thoughts, so please leave a comment and star rating below! Do you have a special twist you added to this dish? Share your creative ideas on Pinterest or Facebook! What twist did you try? Let us know below!
Print
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting slow cooker dish featuring tender chicken and fluffy rice with zesty lemon and herbs.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)
Instructions
- Start by spraying your slow cooker with a bit of cooking spray or lightly greasing it.
- In the slow cooker, add the rinsed rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, dried thyme, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Pour the chicken broth over everything and drizzle with lemon juice and zest.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and rice is fully cooked.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir everything to combine, ensuring the rice is well mixed with the chicken and herbs.
- Serve the chicken and rice mixture in a large bowl or on a platter. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, use fresh herbs if possible and don’t skip the lemon zest. Adjust the liquid based on your preference for rice texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 70mg