This lemony herb chicken with fluffy rice is super simple! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the magic. The bright flavors make it a hit at dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal here. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, chicken thighs are great too! They add more flavor and stay juicy during cooking.
Rice: Long grain white rice works best for this dish as it cooks evenly. You can swap it with jasmine or basmati rice for a subtly different flavor. Just avoid using brown rice unless you adjust your cooking time and liquid.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor. If you don’t have a fresh lemon, use bottled lemon juice, but remember that the flavor might be a bit different. Lime can also be a fun substitute!
Herbs: The dried herbs bring great flavor, but if you have fresh herbs available, use those! Fresh thyme, oregano, and parsley can make the dish even tastier. Just double their amounts!
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is the healthiest choice, but vegetable broth is an excellent substitute if you want a vegetarian option. You could also use water in a pinch, but the broth adds nice flavor.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken and Rice Are Perfect?
Cooking chicken and rice together requires attention to timing. Here are key steps to ensure they come out just right:
- Make sure to coat the chicken well with the lemon herb mix; this boosts flavor.
- When adding rice, stir it into the broth for even cooking. Make sure it’s submerged.
- Check for doneness as rice may need different cooking times based on brand or type.
- A quick fluff with a fork at the end helps separate the rice without breaking it.
Give this dish your own twist by adding veggies like peas or carrots during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition!
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
Flavoring Ingredients:
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This slow cooker recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll need to cook it on low for 3 to 4.5 hours in the slow cooker, making it a great option for a relaxing day at home. In total, expect to spend around 4 to 5 hours before enjoying a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lemon Herb Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried thyme, oregano, parsley, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Stir well until everything is mixed together.
2. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the lemon herb mixture over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated. This is where all that flavorful magic starts!
3. Add Onion and Broth:
Sprinkle the chopped onion on top of the chicken. Then, pour the chicken broth around the chicken, making sure not to wash off the herb mixture.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 3 hours. This allows the chicken to become tender and flavorful!
5. Stir in the Rice:
After 3 hours, briefly lift the chicken out of the slow cooker and set it aside. Stir the uncooked rice into the liquid. Make sure it’s all soaked up!
6. Finish Cooking:
Return the chicken breasts on top of the rice. Cover the slow cooker again and cook on low for an additional 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
7. Fluff and Serve:
Once done, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Garnish your dish with fresh chopped parsley for a delightful finish!
This recipe results in tender, herb-infused chicken served on a bed of delicious lemony rice, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The safest way to do this is to leave it in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method, where you leave the chicken in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a few hours.
Can I Substitute Brown Rice for White Rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires longer cooking time and more liquid. If using brown rice, increase the broth to 2.5 cups and add an extra hour to the cooking time after adding the rice.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Cooked leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist. You can use the microwave or heat it on the stove over low heat.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them tender yet crisp.
