Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: An Easy and Delicious Ultimate Recipe

Introduction

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy days. Tender chicken breasts cooked with fragrant herbs and tangy lemon juice make an irresistible combination served over fluffy rice.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Step 2: (Optional) Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Stir well.
4. Step 4: Pour the rice mixture carefully over the chicken in the slow cooker.
5. Step 5: Arrange lemon slices on top of the rice for added flavor.
6. Step 6: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
7. Step 7: About 30 minutes before serving, check that the chicken is cooked through; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Step 8: Remove the chicken, then fluff the rice gently with a fork. Adjust seasoning if needed.
9. Step 9: Serve the chicken whole or shredded over the rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon slices if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream into the rice before serving.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme and oregano instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
• Try adding vegetables such as peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal.
• If you prefer, swap the chicken breasts for thighs for juicier results.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind brown rice requires longer cooking time—about 7-8 hours on low. Adjust slow cooker time accordingly and check for doneness to avoid undercooked rice.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before slow cooking?

Searing adds extra flavor and a nice color to the chicken, but it is optional. You can skip this step and place the seasoned chicken directly in the slow cooker to save time.

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: An Easy and Delicious Ultimate Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 64 reviews

• Author: Rafael
• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Halal

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Description

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked with fragrant herbs, zesty lemon, and fluffy long-grain white rice. The slow cooker method ensures an easy, hands-off cooking process that results in a cozy, satisfying dish perfect for any day of the week.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Rice Mixture

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

Garnish

• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to infuse flavor throughout.
2. Sear the Chicken (optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until nicely browned. This step adds depth of flavor but can be skipped. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
3. Combine Rice and Broth: In a bowl, mix the uncooked rice, chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried thyme, and dried oregano until well combined.
4. Pour Mixture into Slow Cooker: Carefully pour the rice mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
5. Add Lemon Slices: Arrange lemon slices on top of the rice to impart a fresh citrus aroma during cooking.
6. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
7. Check for Doneness: About 30 minutes before serving, check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it has reached 165°F for safe consumption.
8. Fluff the Rice: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, fluff the rice gently with a fork, and stir in additional seasonings if desired.
9. Serve: Shred the chicken or serve it whole over the rice and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.

Notes

• Searing the chicken before slow cooking is optional but enhances flavor and color.
• Using fresh lemon juice provides a brighter citrus flavor compared to bottled juice.
• This dish can be customized with additional vegetables like peas or carrots added to the rice mixture.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Make sure to check the rice moisture towards the end of the cooking time and add a splash of broth if it looks dry.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 to 7 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Slow Cooker Chicken, Lemon Herb Chicken, Chicken and Rice, Easy Dinner Recipe, One-Pot Meal