Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

There’s something undeniably delightful about a dish that fills your home with the aromatic fragrance of cooking herbs and citrus. Enter the Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice—a meal that not only nurtures your family but also appeals to your taste buds with its juicy chicken, tangy lemon, and tender rice. Did you know this dish can be your secret weapon for hassle-free meals on busy weeknights? With a little prep and a slow cooker, you can infuse your week with comfort and flavor while taking back precious time to enjoy with loved ones.

Imagine coming home after a long day to the tantalizing scent of a freshly cooked meal wafting through the air. It’s much like the experience of a delicious homemade lasagna but with simpler preparation and a lighter twist! This recipe is perfect if you’re craving something hearty without the fuss. So, gather your family around the table and dive into this flavorful one-pot meal, packed with nutrients and happiness. Nothing brings people together quite like good food—why not try this one today?

What is Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?

You may be wondering, what exactly is this delightful dish called Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice? It sounds fancy, but rest assured, it’s as friendly as its name suggests! Picture this: juicy chicken seasoned with zesty lemon and a medley of fragrant herbs, simmered to tender perfection alongside fluffy rice. It’s like a warm hug for your stomach! This dish has a way of charming even the pickiest eaters at the table. After all, they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” right? So why not show some love with this recipe? Give it a try, and you may just win over hearts (and bellies) along the way!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

1. Easy and Delicious: The main highlight of this dish is its incredible ease of preparation, thanks to the slow cooker! Simply toss your ingredients into the pot, set it, and forget it. You’ll savor flavors that taste like you’ve spent hours slaving over a hot stove.

2. Cost-Saving Benefits: Making this meal at home is a budget-friendly choice, allowing you to serve a wholesome dinner without breaking the bank. Smart shopping for ingredients can save you loads compared to dining out.

3. Flavorful Ingredients: The lemon and herb elements of this dish are what set it apart. The brightness of the lemon balanced with the earthiness of herbs creates a symphony of flavors that dances on the palate. Pair it with a side of greens, and you’ve got a balanced meal that feels indulgent! If you’re a fan of stir-fried chicken and vegetables, you’ll enjoy the balance of flavors in this slow-cooked delight too! Give it a shot and see how it compares.

How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Quick Overview

Creating the Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a breeze, taking less than 15 minutes to prepare. With minimal chopping and no need for constant monitoring, it’s perfect for busy households. The result? A satisfying dish that smacks of homemade goodness!

Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Start by coating the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Layer Ingredients: Place the diced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. This will act as a flavorful base for the chicken.

3. Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on top of the onions.

4. Season: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest over the top.

5. Add Rice and Liquids: Pour the rice over the chicken, then add the chicken broth and water.

6. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for about 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice absorbs all the flavors.

7. Shred and Serve: Before serving, shred the chicken with two forks for a pulled texture, stir everything together, and garnish with fresh parsley.

What to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice With

This dish is a stand-alone meal, but enhancing your dining experience can elevate it even more! Consider serving it with a light, crisp salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans are also fantastic sides that complement the dish’s creamy, flavorful qualities. And how about a glass of chilled white wine or lemonade to wash it down? Perfection!

Top Tips for Perfecting Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

• Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with herbs! Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor profile even more if you have them on hand.

• Timing Adjustments: For extra tender chicken, you can increase cooking time slightly on low, just keep an eye on the rice texture.

• Avoid Common Mistakes: Ensure you measure the liquids accurately to prevent overly mushy rice. If you prefer a bit of a consistency check, try tasting the rice an hour before you expect it to be ready.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice can be a lifesaver! Store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to three months. When it’s time to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to revive the creamy texture.

Embrace the simplicity and seasonality of this dish; bring everyone together with a heartwarming meal that carries the comforting essence of home. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

A delightful one-pot meal featuring juicy chicken, tangy lemon, and tender rice, perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts About 1.5 pounds total
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 cup chicken broth Can use low-sodium broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 whole lemon, zested and juiced

Herbs and Seasoning

• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• Salt to taste Salt
• Pepper to taste Pepper

Garnish

• 1 bunch fresh parsley For garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. Start by coating the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Place the diced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker, as a flavorful base for the chicken.
3. Place the chicken breasts on top of the onions.
4. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest over the top.
5. Pour the rice over the chicken, then add the chicken broth and water.

Cooking

1. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for about 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice absorbs all the flavors.

Serving

1. Before serving, shred the chicken with two forks for a pulled texture, stir everything together, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, use fresh herbs if available. Adjust cooking time for extra tender chicken by monitoring rice texture.