Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too! They stay juicy and flavorful during cooking.

Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect for fluffy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, brown rice can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid.

Chicken Broth: Homemade broth makes a difference, but store-bought works too! If you’re avoiding sodium, go for low-sodium broth. Vegetarian or mushroom broth are nice alternatives for a plant-based dish.

Herbs: Dried herbs add great flavor! If you have fresh herbs, feel free to use those instead, just add more as they are less concentrated in flavor compared to dried.

How Can I Ensure the Chicken Stays Moist?

Keeping the chicken moist in the slow cooker is key. First, make sure you season the chicken well, as this adds flavor. Brining the chicken in a saltwater solution for a couple of hours before cooking can also help lock in moisture.

• Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture so it cooks in the steam.
• Avoid lifting the lid too often while cooking, as this lets heat escape, making the cooking process longer.
• If you want to check for doneness, use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F (75°C).

Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Dish:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cooks for 4 to 6 hours. So, you can set it up in the morning and come home to a warm, flavorful meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker:

Start by lightly oiling the base of your slow cooker with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help prevent the rice from sticking later on.

2. Add the Rice:

Once the slow cooker is oiled, pour the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom. This helps create a delicious base for your chicken.

3. Make the Flavorful Mixture:

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well-mixed.

4. Pour Over the Rice:

Carefully pour the broth and herb mixture over the rice in the slow cooker, making sure to cover all the rice evenly.

5. Prepare the Chicken:

Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.

6. Place Chicken in the Slow Cooker:

Gently place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture in the slow cooker. This way, they will soak up all the delicious flavors while cooking.

7. Add the Finishing Touch:

Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken to keep it moist and add a little extra richness.

8. Set and Forget:

Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the rice is tender.

9. Fluff the Rice:

Once cooked, take a fork and gently fluff the rice to separate the grains before serving. This makes it nice and fluffy!

10. Garnish and Serve:

Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh look and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful dish!

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 add a bit more liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook. Typically, you’ll want to cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours, ensuring the rice is tender before serving.

What Can I Substitute for Chicken Breast?

If you prefer dark meat, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent substitute and will yield even juicier results! You can also use a whole cut-up chicken, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm on the stove, adding a splash of broth if the rice has dried out.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare everything up to the cooking step and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to cook it the next day! If you’ve cooked it already, refrigerate the leftovers promptly.