This Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a cozy dish that’s full of flavor! Juicy chicken is cooked slowly with fragrant herbs and zesty lemon, all nestled on a bed of fluffy rice.
It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I love coming home to the wonderful smell, and the best part? You just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. No fuss, just deliciousness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a change, thighs work well too, as they stay juicy. Tofu can also be used for a vegetarian version!
Rice: I stick to long-grain white rice for its fluffy texture. You can replace it with brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Quinoa is another great alternative that adds protein.
Chicken Broth: If you prefer, use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness. Vegetable broth is a nice swap for a vegetarian dish. Homemade broth enhances the flavor even more!
Herbs: Dried herbs give great flavor, but if you have fresh herbs (like thyme and parsley), use them! You can get that vibrant taste by adjusting the amounts — typically, use three times the amount of fresh herbs.
How to Avoid Overcooking the Chicken?
It’s easy to overcook chicken in a slow cooker. Here are some simple tips to keep your chicken juicy:
- Always check for doneness around the end of the cooking time. Chicken should reach 165°F.
- Once it’s done, switch to the ‘keep warm’ setting instead of letting it cook longer.
- If your slow cooker runs hot, consider reducing cooking time to avoid dryness.
With these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time! Enjoy this cozy dish!
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley and lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a cooking time of 4 to 5 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Start by lightly greasing the inside of your slow cooker insert with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make clean-up easier!
2. Layer the Rice:
Next, pour the rinsed rice evenly into the bottom of the slow cooker. This will create a nice base for the chicken and broth to sit on.
3. Add Onions and Garlic:
Scatter the chopped onions and minced garlic over the rice. These will add wonderful flavor to your dish as they cook!
4. Mix the Broth and Herbs:
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, and pepper. This mixture will infuse the chicken with delightful lemon herb flavors.
5. Pour Over Rice:
Carefully pour the broth and herb mixture over the rice and onions. Make sure everything is well covered.
6. Layer the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken breasts on top of the rice and broth mixture. This allows the chicken to soak up all the tasty flavors as it cooks!
7. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Lightly drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts. This will help keep them juicy and flavorful.
8. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the rice is tender.
9. Shred or Slice the Chicken:
Once cooked, you can carefully shred or slice the chicken if you like. Stir the mixture gently to combine the rice with all the delicious cooking juices.
10. Serve and Garnish:
When ready to serve, garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for extra flavor and a bit of color. Enjoy your warm and comforting meal!
Enjoy your flavorful, comforting slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces, but they’ll require a longer cooking time. Bone-in chicken usually needs about 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high. Just ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What Can I Substitute for Rice?
If you’re looking to change things up, quinoa is a great alternative! Just note that cooking times and liquid amounts may change slightly; typically, you’ll need about 2 cups of broth for 1 cup of quinoa. You can also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, but it cooks much faster, so add it in the last hour of cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist. Enjoy it as is or transform it into a tasty chicken salad!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or peas can be added for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them up and layer them in with the rice and onions at the start. If using leafy greens like spinach, add those in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant!
