Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Name: Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; Juice of 2 lemons; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 2 teaspoons dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the delightful combination of zesty lemon and fragrant herbs in this easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe. This comforting dish requires minimal prep and allows the slow cooker to do all the work, resulting in tender chicken simmered to perfection with fluffy rice. Packed with flavor and effortless to make, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2025-10-22T09:53:54.581Z

This slow cooker recipe combines lemon and herbs to create a delightful meal that is both easy and delicious.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Life can get hectic, especially during the week when schedules are packed with work, school, and activities. That's why this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe is a game changer. With only a few minutes of preparation in the morning, you can set it and forget it. When you return home, a delicious, home-cooked meal is waiting for you, allowing you to spend more quality time with loved ones without the fuss of cooking.

Additionally, slow cooking helps infuse the chicken and rice with delightful flavors. The combination of lemon and herbs melds beautifully over time, creating a taste sensation that is both comforting and refreshing. Your family will appreciate a warm, hearty meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.

Versatile Ingredient Options

One of the standout features of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer dark meat, or even use different proteins like turkey or tofu for a plant-based option. The rice can also be replaced with quinoa or another grain for a unique twist. Adding seasonal vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers can elevate the dish even further, making it a colorful and varied meal.

This flexibility ensures that you can tailor the dish to your family's preferences or dietary needs. By experimenting with different ingredients, you can create countless variations, making this a go-to recipe for many occasions.

Preparation and Cooking Tips

To ensure you get the best results with your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, it's important to layer your ingredients correctly. Start with the chicken at the bottom, followed by the rice and then the vegetables. This helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy and ensures it cooks evenly. Always check the cooking time based on your slow cooker’s specific settings; some models cook faster or slower than others.

Moreover, remember to adjust the seasoning to your taste throughout cooking. Fresh herbs can also be added towards the end for a pop of freshness. By following these tips, you’ll ensure a perfectly cooked dish bursting with flavor!

Ingredients

Chicken and Rice Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
Juice of 2 lemons
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 teaspoons dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Add Ingredients

Top the chicken with rice, onion, garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Dish

Cover and cook on low heat for 5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the rice is fluffy.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious slow-cooked meal!

Nutritional Benefits

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice not only pleases the palate but also brings numerous nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle development and repair. The addition of rice offers complex carbohydrates, providing the energy needed for active lifestyles. The inclusion of herbs such as thyme and rosemary contributes antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, benefiting overall health.

Moreover, the dish is naturally low in fat and can easily be adapted to fit higher dietary guidelines by substituting traditional ingredients with healthier alternatives without sacrificing taste.

Storage and Leftovers

Leftovers from this recipe make for great next-day lunches. Simply store any uneaten chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or stovetop. If the rice has absorbed too much moisture, adding a splash of broth or water can help revive it, ensuring it's still delicious and satisfying.

For long-term storage, consider freezing portions of the meal. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just ensure it's sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn, and remember to label it so you remember what’s inside!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider what to serve alongside this dish. A simple side salad or steamed vegetables pair well, adding freshness and crunch. A light vinaigrette can brighten the meal and complement the zesty flavors of the chicken and rice beautifully.

For a more hearty option, crusty bread or homemade garlic bread can also be a hit, perfect for soaking up any tasty juices on your plate. You can create an inviting family feast that everyone will love by focusing on complementary flavors and textures!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free chicken broth.