Imagine walking into your kitchen, greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. It’s like a warm hug from your favorite grandma mixed with a zesty twist! The delicious scent dances around, promising a delightful meal that will make everyone at the table swoon. hearty Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup warm Fall Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Picture tender chicken bathing in fragrant herbs, accompanied by fluffy rice soaking up all those citrusy flavors. Just thinking about it makes my taste buds do a little happy dance!
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory maker. I remember the first time I served Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice at a family gathering. The way my cousin’s eyes lit up as he took the first bite still brings a smile to my face. creamy Chicken Divan dish It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. Trust me, this flavor experience will have you coming back for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is incredibly easy to prepare, making meal prep a breeze
- The bright flavors and tender chicken create an unforgettable taste experience
- Its vibrant presentation makes it visually appealing on any dinner table, while its versatility allows for endless variations based on your preferences
I still chuckle when I think of how my friends couldn’t stop raving about this dish after I served it during our game night.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose 3-4 pieces depending on how many people you’re feeding; these cook beautifully in the slow cooker.
- Long-Grain White Rice: This absorbs all that yummy chicken flavor; rinse it before using for the best texture.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for control over saltiness; it adds depth and richness.
- Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish; zesting adds an extra layer of citrusy goodness.
- Fresh Herbs (Thyme and Parsley): These bring freshness and vibrancy; opt for fresh whenever possible for maximum flavor.
- Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; feel free to add more if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps keep everything moist and adds rich flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by prepping your vegetables and chicken. Rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear to ensure light and fluffy grains.
Season the Chicken: Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their flavor. For more inspiration, check out this One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe.
Add Everything to the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add rinsed rice, minced garlic, lemon juice, zest, broth, thyme, and parsley on top.
Set It and Forget It!: Cover your slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender enough to shred easily.
Finishing Touches: Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks before mixing it back into the rice mixture. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve It Up!: Scoop generous servings onto plates or bowls. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or lemon slices for an extra pop of color before serving.
And there you have it! Your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is ready to steal the show at dinner time! Enjoy every bite as you savor those vibrant flavors that turn an ordinary meal into something extraordinary! For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole recipe.
You Must Know
- Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights
- The combination of herbs creates a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen
- Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze, which means more time for dessert!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the chicken well, then place it in the slow cooker with rice and herbs. Adding liquid before cooking ensures everything absorbs flavors perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the rice for quinoa or add veggies like peas or carrots for extra nutrition. A splash of lemon juice enhances the flavor beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to maintain moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your chicken stays tender, avoid overcooking it; use a meat thermometer to check doneness
- Sautéing onions beforehand adds depth to the flavor profile
- Lastly, let your dish rest before serving so flavors meld beautifully
Sharing this delightful recipe with friends brought smiles all around, especially when they requested seconds. It’s always rewarding when something I made becomes a favorite among my loved ones.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just increase cooking time by 1-2 hours.
What herbs work best in this recipe?
Fresh thyme and rosemary pair wonderfully with lemon and chicken for robust flavor.
Can I make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free rice or quinoa as a substitute without compromising taste.
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a delightful one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and fluffy rice infused with zesty lemon. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, making it a family favorite. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a comforting dinner that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Juice and zest of 2 fresh lemons
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until clear; set aside.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In the slow cooker, layer the seasoned chicken at the bottom. Add rinsed rice, minced garlic, lemon juice, zest, broth, thyme, and parsley on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken into the rice mixture using two forks; adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve garnished with extra herbs or lemon slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider swapping rice for quinoa or including vegetables like peas or carrots. You can use frozen chicken; just increase cooking time by an hour.