Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that practically cooks itself, then this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is the perfect recipe for you! It’s one of those meals that fills your home with inviting aromas and leaves everyone at the table smiling. The chicken comes out so tender and juicy, infused with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, while the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish is a go-to for satisfying everyone without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe even more special is its simplicity. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. You’ll have a wholesome meal ready to serve when you need it most!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can set this meal up in no time.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of lemon and herbs makes it appealing to both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prepping! Cook it ahead of time and store leftovers for quick lunches.
• Comforting Goodness: This dish brings warmth and comfort to your table, making it ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that you probably have on hand or can easily find at your local grocery store. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that delightful flavor profile we all love.

• 2 pounds chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible too! You can easily adapt it based on what you have or your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Switch up the grains: Use quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice for a heartier option.
• Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like dill or oregano to create unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sautéing these aromatics first helps develop their flavors, which will make your dish even tastier!

Step 2: Combine in the Slow Cooker

Now it’s time to transfer that delicious onion and garlic mixture to the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the chicken breasts right on top of it. This layering allows the chicken to soak up all those savory flavors as it cooks.

Step 3: Season It Up

Sprinkle dried thyme, dried rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken breasts. These seasonings are key to achieving that wonderful lemon herb profile!

Step 4: Add Rice and Broth

Next, add uncooked rice around the chicken in the slow cooker. Pour chicken broth over everything, making sure that the rice is submerged in liquid. Drizzling fresh lemon juice on top adds an extra zing that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Set It to Cook

Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 3-4 hours or on high for about 1.5-2 hours. Cooking it gently allows all those flavors to meld together while keeping the chicken tender.

Step 6: Finish It Off

Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and set them aside. Stir in frozen peas into that lovely rice mixture until they warm through. Shred or slice up your chicken before returning it back into the pot. Gently mix everything together so every bite has that delicious combination of chicken, rice, peas, and broth.

Step 7: Serve with Love

Finally, taste your creation; feel free to adjust seasoning if needed! Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over everything just before serving for a burst of freshness. Serve hot, ensuring each plate gets a hearty portion of both chicken and fluffy rice—your loved ones will be delighted!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Cooking can be a delightful journey, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your slow cooker experience to new heights!

• Brown the chicken first: Searing the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker can enhance the flavor and add a beautiful color to your dish. This step locks in moisture and creates a richer taste.
• Use homemade broth: If you have the time, making your own chicken broth can significantly improve the flavor profile of this dish. Homemade broth is often richer and more nutritious than store-bought options.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the amounts of herbs or spices according to your personal preference. Everyone has different palates, so make it yours by experimenting!
• Add veggies for extra nutrition: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers along with the peas. They will not only add color but also enhance the nutritional value of your meal.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking lets all the flavors meld together beautifully. This little pause can make a world of difference!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Presentation is key when it comes to serving dinner, and this dish is no exception! With its vibrant colors and comforting aromas, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the lemony flavors.
• Lemon wedges: Serve some lemon wedges on the side for those who want an extra zing. It enhances both flavor and presentation!

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli brings a nice crunch and vibrant color to your plate while balancing out the softness of the chicken and rice.
• Garden salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes dressed in a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to this hearty meal.
• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread makes for an excellent side that everyone loves. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the slow cooker!
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds depth and texture, enhancing both flavor and nutrition while keeping things colorful on your plate.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re well on your way to creating a memorable dining experience with Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. Enjoy every moment of cooking—and eating!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is not only a delightful meal but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious, wholesome meals ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date for reference.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For best results, consume within this time frame.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, simply warm in the microwave for a few minutes or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming or use the microwave’s defrost setting first.

FAQs

Have questions about making this recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

How long does it take to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?

The total cooking time for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is approximately 4 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice; however, you will need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook. Add an additional hour on low or about 30 minutes on high.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?

This dish is delicious on its own but pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!

Is Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe features lean chicken breasts, wholesome rice, and nutritious peas, making it a balanced dinner option that’s both filling and healthy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience filled with vibrant flavors that warms your heart. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, I’m sure it’ll be loved by all. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!