Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a fantastic meal option for busy days. This dish is not only simple to make but also packed with flavorful ingredients. The bright lemon and fragrant herbs elevate the taste of the chicken and rice, making it a delightful comfort food. Perfect for families, this recipe offers a nutritious meal that requires minimal effort, allowing you to focus on other things while it cooks.
How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a slow cooker, combine the onion, garlic, rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
- Before serving, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Serve this dish warm, directly from the slow cooker. It can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A slice of crusty bread also pairs well to soak up the flavorful juices.
How to Store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in lemon juice and herbs for a couple of hours before cooking.
- You can use brown rice instead of white rice; just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Variation
Feel free to mix in some vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. You can add these ingredients in the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for a fresh addition.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may become drier than thighs. Consider adjusting the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can prepare it on the stovetop. Use a large pot, combine the ingredients, and bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer until the rice is cooked and chicken is tender.
What can I serve with this dish?
This flavorful chicken and rice can be served with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of cooked greens to complete the meal.
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 whole lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley
Instructions
Preparation
- In a slow cooker, combine the onion, garlic, rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
- Before serving, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley.