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Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Delight

by on August 5, 2025

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Welcome to my delicious world of Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Delight! This easy recipe brings together juicy chicken, fragrant herbs, and fluffy rice—all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Whether you’re a busy parent or a weekend cook, this dish saves you time while delivering bold flavors. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your family with a comforting meal made with love!

- Chicken and Rice Components - 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs - 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Herbs and Seasonings - 1 lemon (zested and juiced) - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - Optional Garnish - 1 cup frozen peas - Fresh parsley for garnish Gather these simple ingredients first. The chicken thighs give great flavor. The rice absorbs all that tasty broth. The onion and garlic add depth. Fresh lemon brightens the dish. Use dried herbs for ease. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. The frozen peas add a nice pop of color. Don't forget the parsley for a fresh touch! With these ingredients, you will create a warm and comforting meal. It’s easy to prep and super satisfying. Enjoy the cooking process as much as the eating! {{ingredient_image_1}} Seasoning Techniques First, take your chicken thighs. Season them well with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. This mix gives the chicken a great flavor. You want to make sure every piece gets coated. Set them aside for a moment while you prepare the slow cooker. Layering Ingredients in the Slow Cooker In your slow cooker, add the diced onion and minced garlic. This base will add depth to the dish. Next, lay your seasoned chicken thighs on top. Sprinkle the uncooked long-grain rice evenly over the chicken. This rice will soak up all the tasty juices. Lastly, pour the chicken broth over everything. Do not stir just yet! Add your lemon juice and zest on top. Gently mix without disturbing the rice too much. Setting Up the Slow Cooker Once everything is in the slow cooker, cover it with the lid. Make sure it fits snugly. This helps to trap all the heat and moisture inside. Cooking Time and Temperature Set your slow cooker to low. Cook for 6 to 8 hours. The chicken should be tender, and the rice should be fully cooked. This slow cooking allows the flavors to blend nicely. Adding Peas and Adjusting Seasoning With 30 minutes left to cook, add the frozen peas. Stir gently to mix them in. This adds color and a sweet pop to the dish. After cooking, taste the dish. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serving Suggestions When it's time to serve, dish the chicken and rice into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a nice touch. This makes the meal look bright and inviting. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice! Herb Substitutions If you want a twist, use fresh herbs. Fresh thyme or oregano work great. You can also try rosemary for a strong flavor. Mix and match to find your favorite. Cooking Techniques for Tender Chicken To keep your chicken juicy, season it well. Use salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Let it sit for a few minutes before cooking. This helps the flavors sink in. Common Mistakes to Avoid Don’t skip rinsing the rice. Rinsing removes excess starch and keeps it from getting mushy. Also, avoid adding too much liquid. Stick to the recipe for the right rice-to-broth ratio. Checking Doneness Check the rice about 30 minutes before the cooking time ends. It should be soft but not mushy. If it's undercooked, let it cook longer. The chicken should be tender and pull apart easily. Meal Prep Ideas You can prep your ingredients the night before. Chop the onion and garlic, and season the chicken. Store them in the fridge for a quick meal the next day. Leftover Utilization Leftovers are a gift! Use them in salads or wraps. You can also mix the chicken and rice into a soup. Just add broth, veggies, and heat it up for a new meal. Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh thyme and oregano instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor profile. Brown the Chicken: For added depth of flavor, consider searing the chicken thighs in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker. Don’t Skip the Zest: The lemon zest adds a bright and aromatic element that elevates the overall taste of the dish. Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary based on the slow cooker, so check the chicken for tenderness and the rice for doneness periodically. {{image_2}} Chicken Alternatives You can swap bone-in chicken thighs for other cuts. Try boneless thighs or chicken breasts. Each cut offers a different taste and texture. You can also use turkey if you want a leaner option. Rice and Grain Options Long-grain white rice is great, but you can try brown rice. It adds a nutty flavor. Quinoa or farro also works well. These grains bring extra fiber and nutrients. Just adjust the cooking time for these options. Adding Vegetables Boost the nutrition by adding veggies. Carrots, bell peppers, or spinach fit in nicely. Just chop them up and toss them in with the chicken. They will cook down and add flavor. Spicy Variations Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes to the seasoning. You can also mix in jalapeños for a kick. This change makes the dish exciting and full of flavor. Using Skinless Chicken For a lighter meal, use skinless chicken. This simple swap cuts down on fat. Skinless chicken still stays juicy when cooked slowly. Alternative Broth Choices Choose vegetable broth for a meat-free version. You can also use low-sodium broth to keep it light. This change keeps the flavors bright without extra calories. After cooking, let the chicken and rice cool down. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh for up to three days. Ensure you store it in the fridge. Always label the container with the date. This helps you track how long it has been stored. To freeze, first cool the chicken and rice completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight. When reheating, use the stovetop or microwave for best results. For the stovetop, add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Heat on low, stirring gently to combine flavors. If using the microwave, cover the container to trap steam. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warmth. This way, your chicken and rice will taste just as good as when you first made it. Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They cook faster than bone-in thighs. Keep in mind that the cooking time might reduce to about 5-6 hours. Boneless thighs can be juicy and tender. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part. The meat should be white and juices should run clear. This dish pairs well with simple sides. Try a fresh green salad, steamed veggies, or crusty bread. You can also serve it with a tangy lemon wedge for added flavor. I do not recommend using instant rice. Instant rice cooks much faster than long-grain rice. If you use instant rice, add it in the last 15 minutes of cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container. They will last in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the chicken and rice for up to 2-3 months. This blog post guides you through making Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. You learned about all the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for making a tasty meal. I shared easy ways to change up the recipe and store leftovers. In the end, using a slow cooker means less work for you and more flavor in every bite. Enjoy creating this dish to share with friends and family!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavorful Combination: The lemon and herbs create a bright and fragrant dish that is both comforting and refreshing.
  3. One-Pot Meal: Cooking everything in the slow cooker means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Complete List of Ingredients

– Chicken and Rice Components

– 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs

– 1 cup long-grain white rice

– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– Herbs and Seasonings

– 1 lemon (zested and juiced)

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Optional Garnish

– 1 cup frozen peas

– Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather these simple ingredients first. The chicken thighs give great flavor. The rice absorbs all that tasty broth. The onion and garlic add depth. Fresh lemon brightens the dish. Use dried herbs for ease. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. The frozen peas add a nice pop of color. Don’t forget the parsley for a fresh touch!

With these ingredients, you will create a warm and comforting meal. It’s easy to prep and super satisfying. Enjoy the cooking process as much as the eating!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Seasoning Techniques

First, take your chicken thighs. Season them well with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. This mix gives the chicken a great flavor. You want to make sure every piece gets coated. Set them aside for a moment while you prepare the slow cooker.

Layering Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, add the diced onion and minced garlic. This base will add depth to the dish. Next, lay your seasoned chicken thighs on top. Sprinkle the uncooked long-grain rice evenly over the chicken. This rice will soak up all the tasty juices. Lastly, pour the chicken broth over everything. Do not stir just yet! Add your lemon juice and zest on top. Gently mix without disturbing the rice too much.

Cooking Process

Setting Up the Slow Cooker

Once everything is in the slow cooker, cover it with the lid. Make sure it fits snugly. This helps to trap all the heat and moisture inside.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Set your slow cooker to low. Cook for 6 to 8 hours. The chicken should be tender, and the rice should be fully cooked. This slow cooking allows the flavors to blend nicely.

Final Steps

Adding Peas and Adjusting Seasoning

With 30 minutes left to cook, add the frozen peas. Stir gently to mix them in. This adds color and a sweet pop to the dish. After cooking, taste the dish. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve, dish the chicken and rice into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a nice touch. This makes the meal look bright and inviting. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice!

Tips & Tricks

Maximizing Flavor

Herb Substitutions

If you want a twist, use fresh herbs. Fresh thyme or oregano work great. You can also try rosemary for a strong flavor. Mix and match to find your favorite.

Cooking Techniques for Tender Chicken

To keep your chicken juicy, season it well. Use salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Let it sit for a few minutes before cooking. This helps the flavors sink in.

Ensuring Perfect Rice Texture

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t skip rinsing the rice. Rinsing removes excess starch and keeps it from getting mushy. Also, avoid adding too much liquid. Stick to the recipe for the right rice-to-broth ratio.

Checking Doneness

Check the rice about 30 minutes before the cooking time ends. It should be soft but not mushy. If it’s undercooked, let it cook longer. The chicken should be tender and pull apart easily.

Time-Saving Strategies

Meal Prep Ideas

You can prep your ingredients the night before. Chop the onion and garlic, and season the chicken. Store them in the fridge for a quick meal the next day.

Leftover Utilization

Leftovers are a gift! Use them in salads or wraps. You can also mix the chicken and rice into a soup. Just add broth, veggies, and heat it up for a new meal.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh thyme and oregano instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor profile.
  2. Brown the Chicken: For added depth of flavor, consider searing the chicken thighs in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker.
  3. Don’t Skip the Zest: The lemon zest adds a bright and aromatic element that elevates the overall taste of the dish.
  4. Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary based on the slow cooker, so check the chicken for tenderness and the rice for doneness periodically.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

Chicken Alternatives

You can swap bone-in chicken thighs for other cuts. Try boneless thighs or chicken breasts. Each cut offers a different taste and texture. You can also use turkey if you want a leaner option.

Rice and Grain Options

Long-grain white rice is great, but you can try brown rice. It adds a nutty flavor. Quinoa or farro also works well. These grains bring extra fiber and nutrients. Just adjust the cooking time for these options.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding Vegetables

Boost the nutrition by adding veggies. Carrots, bell peppers, or spinach fit in nicely. Just chop them up and toss them in with the chicken. They will cook down and add flavor.

Spicy Variations

Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes to the seasoning. You can also mix in jalapeños for a kick. This change makes the dish exciting and full of flavor.

Low-Calorie Adjustments

Using Skinless Chicken

For a lighter meal, use skinless chicken. This simple swap cuts down on fat. Skinless chicken still stays juicy when cooked slowly.

Alternative Broth Choices

Choose vegetable broth for a meat-free version. You can also use low-sodium broth to keep it light. This change keeps the flavors bright without extra calories.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

After cooking, let the chicken and rice cool down. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh for up to three days. Ensure you store it in the fridge. Always label the container with the date. This helps you track how long it has been stored.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze, first cool the chicken and rice completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips

When reheating, use the stovetop or microwave for best results. For the stovetop, add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Heat on low, stirring gently to combine flavors. If using the microwave, cover the container to trap steam. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warmth. This way, your chicken and rice will taste just as good as when you first made it.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They cook faster than bone-in thighs. Keep in mind that the cooking time might reduce to about 5-6 hours. Boneless thighs can be juicy and tender.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part. The meat should be white and juices should run clear.

What to serve with Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?

This dish pairs well with simple sides. Try a fresh green salad, steamed veggies, or crusty bread. You can also serve it with a tangy lemon wedge for added flavor.

Can I use instant rice for this recipe?

I do not recommend using instant rice. Instant rice cooks much faster than long-grain rice. If you use instant rice, add it in the last 15 minutes of cooking.

How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container. They will last in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the chicken and rice for up to 2-3 months.

This blog post guides you through making Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. You learned about all the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for making a tasty meal. I shared easy ways to change up the recipe and store leftovers.

In the end, using a slow cooker means less work for you and more flavor in every bite. Enjoy creating this dish to share with friends and famil

- Chicken and Rice Components - 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs - 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Herbs and Seasonings - 1 lemon (zested and juiced) - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - Optional Garnish - 1 cup frozen peas - Fresh parsley for garnish Gather these simple ingredients first. The chicken thighs give great flavor. The rice absorbs all that tasty broth. The onion and garlic add depth. Fresh lemon brightens the dish. Use dried herbs for ease. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. The frozen peas add a nice pop of color. Don't forget the parsley for a fresh touch! With these ingredients, you will create a warm and comforting meal. It’s easy to prep and super satisfying. Enjoy the cooking process as much as the eating! {{ingredient_image_1}} Seasoning Techniques First, take your chicken thighs. Season them well with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. This mix gives the chicken a great flavor. You want to make sure every piece gets coated. Set them aside for a moment while you prepare the slow cooker. Layering Ingredients in the Slow Cooker In your slow cooker, add the diced onion and minced garlic. This base will add depth to the dish. Next, lay your seasoned chicken thighs on top. Sprinkle the uncooked long-grain rice evenly over the chicken. This rice will soak up all the tasty juices. Lastly, pour the chicken broth over everything. Do not stir just yet! Add your lemon juice and zest on top. Gently mix without disturbing the rice too much. Setting Up the Slow Cooker Once everything is in the slow cooker, cover it with the lid. Make sure it fits snugly. This helps to trap all the heat and moisture inside. Cooking Time and Temperature Set your slow cooker to low. Cook for 6 to 8 hours. The chicken should be tender, and the rice should be fully cooked. This slow cooking allows the flavors to blend nicely. Adding Peas and Adjusting Seasoning With 30 minutes left to cook, add the frozen peas. Stir gently to mix them in. This adds color and a sweet pop to the dish. After cooking, taste the dish. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serving Suggestions When it's time to serve, dish the chicken and rice into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a nice touch. This makes the meal look bright and inviting. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice! Herb Substitutions If you want a twist, use fresh herbs. Fresh thyme or oregano work great. You can also try rosemary for a strong flavor. Mix and match to find your favorite. Cooking Techniques for Tender Chicken To keep your chicken juicy, season it well. Use salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Let it sit for a few minutes before cooking. This helps the flavors sink in. Common Mistakes to Avoid Don’t skip rinsing the rice. Rinsing removes excess starch and keeps it from getting mushy. Also, avoid adding too much liquid. Stick to the recipe for the right rice-to-broth ratio. Checking Doneness Check the rice about 30 minutes before the cooking time ends. It should be soft but not mushy. If it's undercooked, let it cook longer. The chicken should be tender and pull apart easily. Meal Prep Ideas You can prep your ingredients the night before. Chop the onion and garlic, and season the chicken. Store them in the fridge for a quick meal the next day. Leftover Utilization Leftovers are a gift! Use them in salads or wraps. You can also mix the chicken and rice into a soup. Just add broth, veggies, and heat it up for a new meal. Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh thyme and oregano instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor profile. Brown the Chicken: For added depth of flavor, consider searing the chicken thighs in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker. Don’t Skip the Zest: The lemon zest adds a bright and aromatic element that elevates the overall taste of the dish. Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary based on the slow cooker, so check the chicken for tenderness and the rice for doneness periodically. {{image_2}} Chicken Alternatives You can swap bone-in chicken thighs for other cuts. Try boneless thighs or chicken breasts. Each cut offers a different taste and texture. You can also use turkey if you want a leaner option. Rice and Grain Options Long-grain white rice is great, but you can try brown rice. It adds a nutty flavor. Quinoa or farro also works well. These grains bring extra fiber and nutrients. Just adjust the cooking time for these options. Adding Vegetables Boost the nutrition by adding veggies. Carrots, bell peppers, or spinach fit in nicely. Just chop them up and toss them in with the chicken. They will cook down and add flavor. Spicy Variations Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes to the seasoning. You can also mix in jalapeños for a kick. This change makes the dish exciting and full of flavor. Using Skinless Chicken For a lighter meal, use skinless chicken. This simple swap cuts down on fat. Skinless chicken still stays juicy when cooked slowly. Alternative Broth Choices Choose vegetable broth for a meat-free version. You can also use low-sodium broth to keep it light. This change keeps the flavors bright without extra calories. After cooking, let the chicken and rice cool down. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh for up to three days. Ensure you store it in the fridge. Always label the container with the date. This helps you track how long it has been stored. To freeze, first cool the chicken and rice completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight. When reheating, use the stovetop or microwave for best results. For the stovetop, add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Heat on low, stirring gently to combine flavors. If using the microwave, cover the container to trap steam. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warmth. This way, your chicken and rice will taste just as good as when you first made it. Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They cook faster than bone-in thighs. Keep in mind that the cooking time might reduce to about 5-6 hours. Boneless thighs can be juicy and tender. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part. The meat should be white and juices should run clear. This dish pairs well with simple sides. Try a fresh green salad, steamed veggies, or crusty bread. You can also serve it with a tangy lemon wedge for added flavor. I do not recommend using instant rice. Instant rice cooks much faster than long-grain rice. If you use instant rice, add it in the last 15 minutes of cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container. They will last in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the chicken and rice for up to 2-3 months. This blog post guides you through making Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. You learned about all the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for making a tasty meal. I shared easy ways to change up the recipe and store leftovers. In the end, using a slow cooker means less work for you and more flavor in every bite. Enjoy creating this dish to share with friends and family!

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

A flavorful and easy slow cooker dish featuring chicken thighs, rice, and a zesty lemon herb sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 whole lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • for garnish fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and oregano. Set aside.
  • In the bottom of the slow cooker, add the diced onion and minced garlic.
  • Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onion and garlic.
  • Sprinkle the uncooked long-grain rice over the chicken.
  • Pour the chicken broth over the rice and chicken.
  • Add the lemon juice and lemon zest to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine without disturbing the rice too much.
  • Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the rice is cooked through.
  • During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the slow cooker and gently stir to incorporate.
  • Once cooked, check the seasoning and adjust with additional salt and pepper as needed.
  • Serve the chicken and rice in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Keyword chicken, herbs, lemon, rice, slow cooker

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