Why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice is a delicious and easy meal that fits perfectly into any busy schedule. With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to do all the work for you. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs will make your taste buds sing, and it’s a wholesome meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, making cleanup a breeze!

How to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
1 cup chicken broth
2 lemons (juiced and zested)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups rice
4 cups water

Directions

In a slow cooker, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and coat them with the lemon herb mixture.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
In the last hour of cooking, add the rice and water to the slow cooker, stirring gently.
Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and serve the chicken on top.

How to serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice

Serve the Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken on a bed of fluffy rice, drizzling any remaining juices from the slow cooker over the top. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for color and taste. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice

To store leftovers, let the chicken and rice cool down completely. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Tips to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice

Sear the chicken breasts for a few minutes in a pan before placing them in the slow cooker for extra flavor.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning. Add more herbs or spices according to your taste.
If you prefer a creamier rice, you can substitute some of the water with milk or cream when adding it to the slow cooker.

variation

You can easily switch up the recipe by adding vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers to the slow cooker. Just toss them in with the other ingredients. You could also use different types of rice, like brown rice or jasmine rice, but keep in mind that cooking times may change.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Can I make this recipe without rice?
Absolutely! You can serve the lemon herb chicken with a side of potatoes, quinoa, or crusty bread instead.

What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be used in wraps, salads, or sandwiches for a quick and easy meal. You can also add them to soups for extra flavor.