© Original recipe by Flavor & Folklore ©
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice 🍋🍗✨
1. Introduction
Welcome to a recipe that transforms a busy weeknight into a delicious dinner adventure with minimal effort! Slow cooker lemon chicken is a flavorful and tender dish that’s perfect for busy households. This easy slow cooker chicken rice recipe combines juicy chicken breasts infused with fresh herbs and lemon, cooked slowly to perfection, then served over fluffy rice. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook looking for effortless dinner ideas, this weeknight chicken rice dish is sure to become a family favorite.
2. Ingredients Needed for Effortless Lemon Herb Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
3. Preparing the Ingredients for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano. This blend of herbs provides the perfect aromatic flavor to your slow cooker lemon chicken.
Step 2: Mix the Lemon and Garlic
In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, and minced garlic. This mixture will infuse the chicken with zesty and savory notes during cooking.
4. Cooking Instructions for the Best Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Layer the Chicken in the Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of your Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker. Pour the lemon-garlic mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Step 2: Add Rice and Broth
Spread the uncooked rice evenly around the chicken, then pour in the chicken broth. This step helps absorb all the flavors and ensures that the rice cooks perfectly alongside the chicken.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. The slow cooking process will make the chicken incredibly juicy and flavor-packed.
Step 4: Fluff and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred or serve whole. Fluff the rice with a fork and mix in any juices from the slow cooker. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness.
5. Storage Tips for Leftover Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice moist. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to a month.
6. Serving Suggestions for Weeknight Chicken Rice
This weeknight chicken rice pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans. For an extra touch, top with grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of lemon juice. You can also enhance the dish by adding a side of creamy parmesan spinach mushroom pasta for a hearty meal.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will become even more tender and flavorful in the slow cooker. Adjust the cooking time to around 7 hours on low for thighs.
Can I make this recipe low-carb or keto?
Yes, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles to keep it low-carb while still enjoying the lemon herb flavors.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The preparation time is approximately 10-15 minutes, with a slow cooking time of about 6 hours. It’s truly effortless!
What are some substitutes for lemon juice?
For a different flavor profile, you can substitute lemon juice with lime juice or add a splash of white vinegar for acidity.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for quick side dishes or reheating leftovers, making your weeknight meals easier and healthier.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures easy cooking and clean-up, ideal for making rice and sautéing garlic in advance.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer — Great for preparing complementary vegetables or other side dishes quickly.
9. Conclusion
This slow cooker lemon chicken and rice recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors, tender textures, and effortless preparation. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting dinner with minimal fuss. By using your slow cooker, you unlock the secret to perfectly moist chicken infused with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs. Add a few healthy sides, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. For more easy dinner ideas, explore our creamy chicken pasta soup or other quick recipes on our site. Happy cooking!