Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the bright and flavorful tastes of this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, where tender chicken is delicately infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. Set it and forget it in your slow cooker for a hassle-free, delicious dinner that pairs perfectly with fluffy rice. This wholesome dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, providing a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2025-11-30T14:54:19.143Z

This dish brings together the best of comforting flavors with the freshness of lemon and herbs.

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When you're juggling work, family, and other commitments, finding time to prepare a nutritious dinner can be a challenge. This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is the ideal solution. By using a slow cooker, you can simply set the ingredients in the morning and return home to the delightful aroma of dinner waiting for you. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken remains succulent and infused with all the bright flavors.

Another great advantage of this dish is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your family's preferences by adding extra vegetables or swapping out the herbs for your favorites. This recipe serves as a solid foundation for exploring different flavor profiles, making it a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, supporting muscle health and providing long-lasting energy. Combined with fiber-rich rice and nutrient-dense vegetables, this meal contributes to a well-balanced diet.

Moreover, the inclusion of herbs such as oregano and thyme offers various health benefits. These herbs are known for their antioxidant properties, which help combat free radicals in the body. The fresh lemon juice adds Vitamin C, essential for immune support, making this dish a wholesome option for family meals.

Easy Meal Prep Ideas

For those who enjoy meal prepping, this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a fantastic choice. You can prepare larger portions and store them for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply divide the cooled leftovers into meal prep containers, and you’ll have healthy, homemade food ready to go.

Additionally, consider pairing this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad, making it even more satisfying and nutritious. The versatility of the flavors means you can easily incorporate different sides without compromising the deliciousness of this main dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup long-grain rice
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready for the slow cooker.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your meal.

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Place them in the slow cooker.

Add Remaining Ingredients

In a bowl, mix the chicken broth, rice, onion, garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for about 5 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice!

Tips for Perfect Chicken

To achieve the perfect chicken with this recipe, be mindful of the cooking time. Every slow cooker varies, so it's essential to periodically check the chicken's doneness if you're adjusting the recipe. You want the chicken to be tender and easily shreddable, which typically occurs after about five hours on low heat.

Alternatively, if you're short on time, you can use the high setting on your slow cooker. Just ensure to check the chicken after 3 hours to prevent overcooking. Shredding the chicken after cooking allows it to soak up even more of the flavorful broth, enhancing your dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining the dish's flavor and texture. Allow the meal to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days or can be frozen for longer storage.

When reheating, make sure to add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Microwave or reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through. This will help retain the moisture and keep the chicken and rice delightful and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal further with a few thoughtful serving suggestions. Consider a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad dressed in olive oil and lemon; it complements the chicken's citrusy flavors beautifully.

For an extra touch, sprinkle some toasted almonds or walnuts on top of your chicken and rice before serving for added crunch and nutrition. This vibrant meal not only looks appealing but provides a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will impress your family and guests alike.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.