Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Slow cooker meals have a special appeal, providing a delightful blend of convenience and home-cooked comfort. Now imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of chicken infused with bright lemon and fragrant herbs, all mingling together with fluffy rice. This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe is not just a tasty dish but a heartfelt embrace at the end of a long day. Let’s dive into this culinary experience that will surely become a family favorite!
Why Make This Recipe
- It’s a one-pot meal that simplifies cooking and cleanup.
- The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs elevate the dish, making it feel gourmet.
- Perfect for busy weeknights, as it cooks itself while you carry on with your day.
With this recipe, you’ll discover how effortless it can be to create comforting, flavorful meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Making this dish is as easy as following these clear, step-by-step guidelines. So let’s get started on this journey to a delightful dinner!
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
The first step to a successful dish is preparation. Gather the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes softened and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic, allowing it to cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. The aromas will begin to waft through your kitchen, setting the stage for what’s to come.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Transfer this delicious onion and garlic mixture to the bottom of your slow cooker. Now, it’s time to place the chicken breasts on top. Sprinkle them with the dried thyme, dried rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper, giving the chicken a flavorful coating it deserves.
Step 4: Add the Rice and Broth
Next, add the uncooked rice around the chicken inside the slow cooker. It’s vital to evenly distribute the rice for better cooking. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring that the rice is submerged in the liquid, creating a cozy bath of flavors. Now drizzle the fresh lemon juice over it all, adding a final touch of brightness.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and the rice to cook through perfectly. The magic happens as the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Once your cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and set them aside. Stir in the frozen peas into the rice and broth mixture, allowing them to warm through. While the chicken rests, shred or slice the chicken breasts before returning them to the slow cooker. Gently stir the mixture to combine the chicken, rice, peas, and broth. You may wish to taste your creation and adjust seasonings, adding additional salt or pepper if necessary.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving, bringing a fresh pop of color to the dish. Serve the lemon herb chicken and rice hot, ensuring each plate gets a generous portion of both chicken and rice.
Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
To keep your delicious Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice fresh and safe to eat, consider these storage guidelines:
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at 40°F or lower.
- Freeze leftover portions for up to 2 months. Make sure to store in a freezer-safe container.
- When reheating, ensure the dish reaches 165°F for safety and best flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
While this dish shines on its own, here are some delightful serving suggestions and pairings to consider:
- Accompany with Salads: A light arugula salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette perfectly complements the flavors of the chicken and rice.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Adding a side of cheesy garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette can elevate your meal experience.
- Fresh Vegetable Sides: Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or green beans make for a healthy side.
- Top with Fresh Herbs: For an extra touch, consider garnishing with lemon wedges or different fresh herbs like basil or cilantro.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc goes beautifully with the dish, enhancing the citrus notes.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, consider using them instead of dried for a heightened flavor experience.
- Cooking the Rice: Ensure the rice is well submerged in the broth for even cooking; add extra broth if necessary.
- Adapt for Spiciness: Feel free to add red pepper flakes if you desire a touch of heat.
- Meal Prep Magic: Consider making a large batch at the beginning of the week for quick lunches.
Variations or Substitutions
If you wish to switch things up, consider these variations:
- Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be substituted. They add more flavor and remain moist throughout the cooking process.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken with chickpeas or mixed veggies for a delicious vegetarian alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble all the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Just turn on the slow cooker in the morning for a home-cooked meal waiting for you.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: You can add red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Adjust according to your taste preferences during the cooking process.
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- Yes, but keep in mind:
- Use about 1.5 cups of brown rice.
- Increase the cooking time by an hour or so, as brown rice requires more time to cook through.
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe lies not just in its simplicity but in the rich flavors that emerge from the slow cooking process. Whether you are looking for a cozy family dinner or need an easy meal for guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Enjoy each bite of this succulent chicken and enjoy the smiles it brings around your dinner table.
Print
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Total Time: 195 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A cozy, one-pot meal featuring tender chicken infused with lemon and herbs, paired with fluffy rice, all cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer the onion and garlic to the slow cooker, placing chicken breasts on top and seasoning with herbs and spices.
- Add uncooked rice around the chicken, pour chicken broth over it, and drizzle lemon juice on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours.
- Remove chicken, stir in peas, shred chicken and combine with the rice mixture.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
For best results, ensure the rice is well submerged in broth during cooking. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.