This Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a bright and tasty dish that makes dinner a breeze! With juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and zesty lemon herbs, it’s sure to please everyone.
Cooking in a slow cooker means less hassle for you, just toss in everything and let it work its magic. I love pairing it with a fresh salad for extra crunch—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their lean protein. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too! They’ll add a richer flavor to the dish.
Rice: Long-grain white rice keeps the dish light and fluffy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, brown rice can be used but adjust the liquid and cooking time as it takes longer to cook.
Chicken broth: Homemade broth is great if available. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter dish or even water in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as robust.
Spices & Herbs: Dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley add a lovely herbal note. If fresh herbs are on hand, feel free to use those for a fresher taste! Just double the amount of fresh herbs when substituting for dried.
Frozen peas: These add color and sweetness. If you don’t have peas, try green beans or corn. They can also brighten up the dish nicely.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Moist in the Slow Cooker?
Keeping chicken moist while cooking low and slow is all about the method. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Start with enough liquid—3 cups of broth is ideal.
- Place the chicken on top of the rice and broth. This helps it steam as it cooks.
- Cook on LOW for the best results; high heat can dry it out.
- Check for doneness around the 4-hour mark to avoid overcooking.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so that juices redistribute.
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 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 rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley or lemon slices for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 4 to 6 hours of cooking in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for a busy day—you just set it and forget it while all the delicious flavors meld together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Start off by spraying your slow cooker insert lightly with cooking spray or brushing it with a little olive oil. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Mix the Rice and Seasonings:
In a mixing bowl, combine the rinsed rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, dried thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to mix everything evenly. This mixture will lay the flavorful foundation at the bottom of your slow cooker.
3. Layer in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the rice mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly. Then, take the chicken breasts and lay them on top of the rice. This placement allows the chicken to baste in all that yummy flavor and moisture.
4. Add the Chicken Broth and Season:
Pour the chicken broth evenly over the rice mixture. Drizzle the chicken breasts with lemon juice and olive oil for added flavor. Make sure the rice is mostly submerged in the broth—it helps it cook perfectly!
5. Slow Cook the Dish:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, and the rice will be tender and fluffy. You can check for doneness around the 4-hour mark.
6. Add the Peas:
About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in the frozen peas, if you’re using them. Cover again and let everything cook together until the peas are heated through.
7. Final Touches:
Once it’s done cooking, check the seasoning and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. Then, garnish your dish with fresh parsley or lemon slices if you like—it adds a colorful touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm lemon herb chicken and rice right from the slow cooker. Enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting and flavorful meal—you deserve it!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically requires about 1 hour longer to cook, and you might need to add an extra cup of broth to ensure it cooks properly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, just be aware that they may require a longer cooking time to reach safe internal temperatures. Ensure they are fully cooked (165°F) before serving.
How Can I Enhance the Flavor Even More?
For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken breasts in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs for a few hours before adding them to the slow cooker. Adding fresh herbs like basil or cilantro at the end can also brighten up the dish!
