This Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a tasty and simple meal. With juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and zesty lemon, it’s perfect for busy days when you need something comforting.
Cooking in a slow cooker is like having a magic kitchen helper! Just toss everything in, and let it do its thing while you kick back and relax. Can’t wait to dig in! 🍋🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their ease and versatility. If you’re looking for an alternative, chicken thighs also work great and will stay juicy in the slow cooker.
Rice: Long-grain white rice gives a fluffy texture. You could swap it with brown rice for a more nutritious option, but keep in mind it will require more liquid and a longer cooking time. Quinoa can also be a fun and healthy substitute!
Lemon: Fresh lemon truly brightens the dish. If you don’t have it, a splash of bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for flavor. Lime juice is an interesting twist if you’re feeling adventurous!
Herbs: Dried thyme, oregano, and parsley add great flavor. If you have fresh herbs available, use them instead! Just chop them up but remember to adjust the amounts as fresh herbs are often more potent.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker can be a game changer, but getting it just right is key. Here’s how to ensure your chicken is juicy and cooked through:
- Keep the slow cooker covered while cooking to retain heat and moisture.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, depending on your schedule. The low setting gives better flavor!
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps it retain its juices when you slice or shred it.
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced (optional)
- 1/2 cup onions, diced (optional)
- Fresh parsley or lemon slices for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy slow cooker dish takes about 10 minutes to prep, and then you’ll let it cook for 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. That means you can set it up and go about your day while dinner cooks itself!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Flavorful Broth:
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried thyme, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s nicely mixed.
2. Prep the Slow Cooker:
Spray your slow cooker insert with cooking spray or lightly grease it with olive oil. This helps keep everything from sticking.
3. Start with the Rice:
Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of your slow cooker. It will soak up all the delicious juices!
4. Add Optional Veggies:
If you’re using them, sprinkle the diced carrots and onions over the rice. They add color and extra flavor to the dish.
5. Layer the Chicken:
Carefully place the chicken breasts on top of the rice and vegetables. This makes sure they get coated in the yummy broth.
6. Pour Over the Yummy Mixture:
Now, take your broth mixture from step 1 and pour it evenly over the chicken and rice. Make sure everything gets a nice soak!
7. Drizzle Some Olive Oil:
Take the tablespoon of olive oil and drizzle it over the chicken breasts. This adds extra richness and flavor.
8. Cover and Cook:
Put the lid on your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it’s no longer pink inside and the rice is tender.
9. Fluff the Rice:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts (they’ll be hot!). Use a fork to fluff the rice, mixing it with the broth and flavors for a tasty base.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the chicken over the fluffy rice, and if you like, garnish with fresh parsley or lemon slices for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious and easy dinner!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to increase the cooking time by about 1 hour. Also, add an extra half cup of chicken broth to ensure it cooks properly.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth or even water mixed with a bouillon cube as a substitute. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain flavor!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms. Just make sure they’re diced evenly to ensure they cook properly alongside the chicken and rice.
