Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
Introduction
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice is a bright and flavorful dish that makes dinner time easy and enjoyable. The combination of tender chicken infused with lemon and herbs, served over soft fluffy rice, creates a comforting meal that everyone will love. This recipe is perfect for busy days and is sure to become a family favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only simple but also delicious and healthy. The slow cooker allows flavors to meld beautifully, and the chicken turns out juicy and easy to shred. Lemon adds a zesty brightness, while the herbs provide depth. Plus, cooking it all in one pot minimizes cleanup. If you’re looking for a satisfying meal that requires minimal effort, this recipe is for you!
How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
To create this delightful dish, follow these easy steps. You’ll have a hearty meal ready that fills your home with delicious aromas.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a slow cooker, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker, making sure they are well-coated with the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the juices.
- Serve the lemon herb chicken over fluffy rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
To serve this dish, spoon the shredded lemon herb chicken over a bed of fluffy rice. Make sure to drizzle some of the cooking juices over the top for extra flavor. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra liquid if needed to keep it moist.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon mixture overnight before cooking.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Adjust the herbs based on your preferences. Fresh herbs can be used if available.
Variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by adding vegetables to the slow cooker. Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini would work well. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes! If you use frozen chicken, just make sure to cook it longer. It usually requires an extra hour or two on low.
2. Can I substitute rice for another grain?
Absolutely! Quinoa or couscous can be great alternatives if you want to add more variety to your meal.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy a flavorful and hearty meal with less effort and more enjoyment. Happy cooking!
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Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
- Total Time: 315 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A bright and flavorful dish of tender chicken infused with lemon and herbs, served over soft fluffy rice.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker, making sure they are well-coated with the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the juices.
- Serve the lemon herb chicken over fluffy rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon mixture overnight before cooking. You can also add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the slow cooker.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 300 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg