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Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe

by on December 22, 2024

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Looking for a simple meal packed with flavor? This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe is your answer! With just a few fresh ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a delicious dish that’s perfect for any night. Follow my easy steps to impress your family and enjoy tender chicken with every bite. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started!

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup long-grain rice - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Zest of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup frozen peas - ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Lemon slices (for garnish) To make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, you need a few key items. Start with four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These cook nicely and stay juicy. You will also want one cup of long-grain rice. This rice will soak up all the delicious flavors. Next, grab two cups of chicken broth. This adds a rich taste to the dish. One medium onion, diced, gives a sweet base. You will also need three cloves of garlic, minced, for a burst of flavor. The zest of one lemon brings a fresh aroma. You will also use two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness. Add one teaspoon of dried rosemary and one teaspoon of dried thyme for herby goodness. Don't forget salt and pepper for seasoning. Finally, for color and taste, you will use one cup of frozen peas. These add a nice pop to your dish. For garnishing, have a quarter cup of fresh parsley chopped. Lemon slices make a lovely finish for presentation. With these ingredients, you will create a meal that is both tasty and easy to prepare. Each element plays a role in making your dish flavorful and satisfying. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they fit well. Next, sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken. Add dried rosemary and thyme for a burst of flavor. This simple seasoning makes the chicken taste great. In a separate bowl, mix diced onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. This mix adds a bright, zesty flavor to the dish. Spread this mixture evenly over the chicken. It gives the chicken a wonderful aroma as it cooks. Now, pour in the chicken broth. This broth will keep the chicken moist and flavorful. Sprinkle the long-grain rice evenly over the top. Do not stir it in; leave it on top. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through, and the rice will absorb the liquid. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas. Cover again to let them cook through. When ready, shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks. Fluff the rice with a fork. Adjust seasoning if needed, and enjoy your meal! When using your slow cooker, you can choose between low and high settings. Cooking on low takes about 4 to 5 hours. This method keeps the chicken juicy and tender. If you’re short on time, use the high setting. This cooks the dish in about 2 to 3 hours. Just keep an eye on the chicken. It should be fully cooked and easy to shred. To boost the taste, think about adding more lemon juice or zest. A splash of white wine can add depth too. If you like heat, try adding red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Always taste the dish before serving. Shredding chicken in the slow cooker is simple. Use two forks to pull apart the chicken. Start at one end and work your way to the other. This keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. After shredding, fluff the rice with a fork. This helps mix everything well. Enjoy the tasty blend of flavors in each bite! Pro Tips Use Bone-in Chicken for More Flavor: If you prefer more flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts. They will add a richer taste to your dish. Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps retain more juices and keeps the chicken moist. Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil to tailor the flavor to your preference. Serve with Fresh Lemon: For an extra burst of freshness, serve the dish with additional lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. {{image_2}} You can switch out the chicken for other meats. Try using turkey breasts for a leaner option. Pork chops also work well and add a different taste. For a beef twist, use tender cuts like sirloin. If you want a vegetarian dish, chickpeas can be a great substitute. Just add them in with the rice for a hearty meal. Long-grain rice is great, but you have other choices too. Basmati rice gives a nutty flavor. Jasmine rice adds a sweet touch. If you're in the mood for something unique, try quinoa. It cooks well in the slow cooker and adds protein. Just remember, cooking times may vary based on the rice you choose. Herbs can change the whole taste of your dish. Instead of rosemary and thyme, try oregano or basil. They add a fresh twist. Cilantro gives a bright flavor if you want a different vibe. You can even mix herbs, like parsley and dill, for a fun combo. Adjust the amounts to fit your taste and enjoy! To store leftovers safely, let the dish cool first. Place the chicken and rice in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Label the container with the date. This way, you won't forget when you made it. For long-term storage, freeze the dish. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. To reheat, you can use the microwave or stove. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots. If using the stove, add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Heat on low until warmed through. Enjoy your meal again! Yes, you can use brown rice. Brown rice needs more time to cook. Adjust the cooking time to about 6 to 8 hours on low. This change adds more fiber and a nutty flavor to your meal. Make sure to add extra liquid if needed. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check it. You can also check if it shreds easily with a fork. If it does, it is cooked. Ensure the juices run clear to guarantee it is safe to eat. You can serve this dish with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. A side of roasted broccoli or green beans works well too. For a nice touch, add some warm bread or rolls. These sides balance the meal and add more color to your plate. In this blog post, we covered how to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. You learned about the key ingredients and detailed instructions for preparation. We also shared helpful tips and variations to customize your dish. Remember, you can adjust cooking times and flavors to suit your taste. With simple storage guidelines and reheating methods, you can enjoy this meal anytime. Try this recipe for a delicious and easy dinner. You'll impress your family and friends with minimal effort. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavorful Dish: The combination of lemon, herbs, and chicken creates a deliciously vibrant flavor profile.
  3. One-Pot Meal: Cooking everything in the slow cooker means fewer dishes to clean up afterward.
  4. Healthy Ingredients: This dish is packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious choice for the family.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup long-grain rice

– 2 cups chicken broth

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– Zest of 1 lemon

– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup frozen peas

– ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

– Lemon slices (for garnish)

To make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, you need a few key items. Start with four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These cook nicely and stay juicy. You will also want one cup of long-grain rice. This rice will soak up all the delicious flavors.

Next, grab two cups of chicken broth. This adds a rich taste to the dish. One medium onion, diced, gives a sweet base. You will also need three cloves of garlic, minced, for a burst of flavor.

The zest of one lemon brings a fresh aroma. You will also use two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness. Add one teaspoon of dried rosemary and one teaspoon of dried thyme for herby goodness. Don’t forget salt and pepper for seasoning.

Finally, for color and taste, you will use one cup of frozen peas. These add a nice pop to your dish. For garnishing, have a quarter cup of fresh parsley chopped. Lemon slices make a lovely finish for presentation.

With these ingredients, you will create a meal that is both tasty and easy to prepare. Each element plays a role in making your dish flavorful and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Chicken and Seasoning

Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they fit well. Next, sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken. Add dried rosemary and thyme for a burst of flavor. This simple seasoning makes the chicken taste great.

Mixing Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix diced onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. This mix adds a bright, zesty flavor to the dish. Spread this mixture evenly over the chicken. It gives the chicken a wonderful aroma as it cooks.

Cooking Process

Now, pour in the chicken broth. This broth will keep the chicken moist and flavorful. Sprinkle the long-grain rice evenly over the top. Do not stir it in; leave it on top. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through, and the rice will absorb the liquid.

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas. Cover again to let them cook through. When ready, shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks. Fluff the rice with a fork. Adjust seasoning if needed, and enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Time Recommendations

When using your slow cooker, you can choose between low and high settings. Cooking on low takes about 4 to 5 hours. This method keeps the chicken juicy and tender. If you’re short on time, use the high setting. This cooks the dish in about 2 to 3 hours. Just keep an eye on the chicken. It should be fully cooked and easy to shred.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost the taste, think about adding more lemon juice or zest. A splash of white wine can add depth too. If you like heat, try adding red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Always taste the dish before serving.

Shredding Chicken Technique

Shredding chicken in the slow cooker is simple. Use two forks to pull apart the chicken. Start at one end and work your way to the other. This keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. After shredding, fluff the rice with a fork. This helps mix everything well. Enjoy the tasty blend of flavors in each bite!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Bone-in Chicken for More Flavor: If you prefer more flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts. They will add a richer taste to your dish.
  2. Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps retain more juices and keeps the chicken moist.
  3. Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil to tailor the flavor to your preference.
  4. Serve with Fresh Lemon: For an extra burst of freshness, serve the dish with additional lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can switch out the chicken for other meats. Try using turkey breasts for a leaner option. Pork chops also work well and add a different taste. For a beef twist, use tender cuts like sirloin. If you want a vegetarian dish, chickpeas can be a great substitute. Just add them in with the rice for a hearty meal.

Rice Options

Long-grain rice is great, but you have other choices too. Basmati rice gives a nutty flavor. Jasmine rice adds a sweet touch. If you’re in the mood for something unique, try quinoa. It cooks well in the slow cooker and adds protein. Just remember, cooking times may vary based on the rice you choose.

Herb Modifications

Herbs can change the whole taste of your dish. Instead of rosemary and thyme, try oregano or basil. They add a fresh twist. Cilantro gives a bright flavor if you want a different vibe. You can even mix herbs, like parsley and dill, for a fun combo. Adjust the amounts to fit your taste and enjoy!

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

To store leftovers safely, let the dish cool first. Place the chicken and rice in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Label the container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made it.

Freezing Guidelines

For long-term storage, freeze the dish. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Methods

To reheat, you can use the microwave or stove. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots. If using the stove, add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Heat on low until warmed through. Enjoy your meal again!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, you can use brown rice. Brown rice needs more time to cook. Adjust the cooking time to about 6 to 8 hours on low. This change adds more fiber and a nutty flavor to your meal. Make sure to add extra liquid if needed.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check it. You can also check if it shreds easily with a fork. If it does, it is cooked. Ensure the juices run clear to guarantee it is safe to eat.

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

You can serve this dish with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. A side of roasted broccoli or green beans works well too. For a nice touch, add some warm bread or rolls. These sides balance the meal and add more color to your plate.

In this blog post, we covered how to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. You learned about the key ingredients and detailed instructions for preparation. We also shared helpful tips and variations to customize your dish. Remember, you can adjust cooking times and flavors to suit your taste. With simple storage guidelines and reheating methods, you can enjoy this meal anytime. Try this recipe for a delicious and easy dinner. You’ll impress your family and friends with minimal effort. Enjoy your cooking adventur

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup long-grain rice - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Zest of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup frozen peas - ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Lemon slices (for garnish) To make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, you need a few key items. Start with four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These cook nicely and stay juicy. You will also want one cup of long-grain rice. This rice will soak up all the delicious flavors. Next, grab two cups of chicken broth. This adds a rich taste to the dish. One medium onion, diced, gives a sweet base. You will also need three cloves of garlic, minced, for a burst of flavor. The zest of one lemon brings a fresh aroma. You will also use two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness. Add one teaspoon of dried rosemary and one teaspoon of dried thyme for herby goodness. Don't forget salt and pepper for seasoning. Finally, for color and taste, you will use one cup of frozen peas. These add a nice pop to your dish. For garnishing, have a quarter cup of fresh parsley chopped. Lemon slices make a lovely finish for presentation. With these ingredients, you will create a meal that is both tasty and easy to prepare. Each element plays a role in making your dish flavorful and satisfying. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they fit well. Next, sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken. Add dried rosemary and thyme for a burst of flavor. This simple seasoning makes the chicken taste great. In a separate bowl, mix diced onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. This mix adds a bright, zesty flavor to the dish. Spread this mixture evenly over the chicken. It gives the chicken a wonderful aroma as it cooks. Now, pour in the chicken broth. This broth will keep the chicken moist and flavorful. Sprinkle the long-grain rice evenly over the top. Do not stir it in; leave it on top. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through, and the rice will absorb the liquid. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas. Cover again to let them cook through. When ready, shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks. Fluff the rice with a fork. Adjust seasoning if needed, and enjoy your meal! When using your slow cooker, you can choose between low and high settings. Cooking on low takes about 4 to 5 hours. This method keeps the chicken juicy and tender. If you’re short on time, use the high setting. This cooks the dish in about 2 to 3 hours. Just keep an eye on the chicken. It should be fully cooked and easy to shred. To boost the taste, think about adding more lemon juice or zest. A splash of white wine can add depth too. If you like heat, try adding red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Always taste the dish before serving. Shredding chicken in the slow cooker is simple. Use two forks to pull apart the chicken. Start at one end and work your way to the other. This keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. After shredding, fluff the rice with a fork. This helps mix everything well. Enjoy the tasty blend of flavors in each bite! Pro Tips Use Bone-in Chicken for More Flavor: If you prefer more flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts. They will add a richer taste to your dish. Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps retain more juices and keeps the chicken moist. Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil to tailor the flavor to your preference. Serve with Fresh Lemon: For an extra burst of freshness, serve the dish with additional lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. {{image_2}} You can switch out the chicken for other meats. Try using turkey breasts for a leaner option. Pork chops also work well and add a different taste. For a beef twist, use tender cuts like sirloin. If you want a vegetarian dish, chickpeas can be a great substitute. Just add them in with the rice for a hearty meal. Long-grain rice is great, but you have other choices too. Basmati rice gives a nutty flavor. Jasmine rice adds a sweet touch. If you're in the mood for something unique, try quinoa. It cooks well in the slow cooker and adds protein. Just remember, cooking times may vary based on the rice you choose. Herbs can change the whole taste of your dish. Instead of rosemary and thyme, try oregano or basil. They add a fresh twist. Cilantro gives a bright flavor if you want a different vibe. You can even mix herbs, like parsley and dill, for a fun combo. Adjust the amounts to fit your taste and enjoy! To store leftovers safely, let the dish cool first. Place the chicken and rice in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Label the container with the date. This way, you won't forget when you made it. For long-term storage, freeze the dish. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. To reheat, you can use the microwave or stove. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots. If using the stove, add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Heat on low until warmed through. Enjoy your meal again! Yes, you can use brown rice. Brown rice needs more time to cook. Adjust the cooking time to about 6 to 8 hours on low. This change adds more fiber and a nutty flavor to your meal. Make sure to add extra liquid if needed. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check it. You can also check if it shreds easily with a fork. If it does, it is cooked. Ensure the juices run clear to guarantee it is safe to eat. You can serve this dish with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. A side of roasted broccoli or green beans works well too. For a nice touch, add some warm bread or rolls. These sides balance the meal and add more color to your plate. In this blog post, we covered how to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. You learned about the key ingredients and detailed instructions for preparation. We also shared helpful tips and variations to customize your dish. Remember, you can adjust cooking times and flavors to suit your taste. With simple storage guidelines and reheating methods, you can enjoy this meal anytime. Try this recipe for a delicious and easy dinner. You'll impress your family and friends with minimal effort. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

A flavorful and easy slow cooker dish featuring chicken, rice, and a zesty lemon herb sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 piece zest of lemon
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • to taste lemon slices (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, dried rosemary, and thyme.
  • In a separate bowl, mix together the diced onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Spread this mixture over the chicken.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the rice evenly over the top without stirring.
  • Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice has absorbed the liquid.
  • About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas and cover again to allow them to cook through.
  • Once done, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, then fluff up the rice with a fork.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.

Notes

Serve the chicken and rice in bowls, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon slices for a refreshing touch.
Keyword chicken, herbs, lemon, rice, slow cooker

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