This Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a true winner! Tender chicken meets fluffy rice, all flavored with zesty lemon and fresh herbs. Yum!
Honestly, it’s like coming home to a hug in a bowl. I love that it cooks while I do my thing! Just set it up and enjoy a tasty meal without any fuss.
Plus, who doesn’t love one-pot meals? Cleanup is a breeze, and I can focus on savoring every bite instead of worrying about dishes. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is the way to go for a tender dish. If you want, you can substitute with thighs for richer flavor or use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Rice: Long grain white rice works great here, but feel free to use brown rice. Just remember, it may take a little longer to cook and require extra liquid.
Chicken Broth: Homemade is awesome if you have it, but store-bought is just fine too. For a lighter option, use vegetable broth instead.
Herbs: Dried herbs are used here for convenience, but if you have fresh ones, use about three times the amount since they’re more potent.
How Do I Keep the Chicken Moist While Cooking?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker is great for moisture, but here are some tips to ensure juicy results:
- Choose chicken breasts of similar size for even cooking.
- Don’t skip the olive oil; it helps keep the chicken moist.
- Monitor cooking time closely. Overcooking can dry out the chicken. Aim for just right!
Once done, shred the chicken gently into the rice for an even flavor throughout.
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ cups long grain white rice, uncooked
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then lets your slow cooker do the work for 4 to 5 hours. You’ll have a delicious and hearty meal ready to serve with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice Mixture:
In your slow cooker, add the uncooked rice along with the chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so it’s well mixed.
2. Add the Chicken:
Next, take the chicken breasts and place them right on top of the rice mixture. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful while it cooks.
3. Cook It Up:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for 4 to 5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and the rice is fluffy and tender.
4. Shred and Mix:
Once cooking time is up, carefully shred the chicken using two forks and gently stir it into the rice, mixing everything together.
5. Garnish for Presentation:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top and add lemon slices for a beautiful touch.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm chicken and rice on plates or in bowls, and enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal with your loved ones!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just be sure to add an extra hour to the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through. It’s best to cook on low for about 5 to 6 hours when starting with frozen chicken.
Can I Substitute the Rice with Another Type?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for long grain white rice, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it will require additional liquid and a longer cooking time. Alternatively, you can use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a grain-free option.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to refresh the rice.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Dish?
This lemon herb chicken and rice is great on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
