why make this recipe
This recipe is simple and needs little work. The slow cooker makes the chicken tender and the lemon and herbs add bright flavor. You can set it and forget it while the rice cooks later. If you like easy family dinners, try this dish with Chicken with Buttered Noodles for another simple meal idea.
introduction
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice is a calm, easy dinner. The chicken cooks low and slow with lemon, olive oil, and dried herbs. You get juicy chicken and bright flavor. The rice stays light and soft to soak up the juices. For a similar cozy dish, see this version of slow cooker lemon herb chicken.
how to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
Ingredients :
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups jasmine or basmati rice
- 4 cups water
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions :
- In a slow cooker, combine chicken broth, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook the rice according to package instructions.
- Serve the chicken over fluffy rice and garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy!
how to serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
Serve the chicken on top of the rice so the juices soak into it. Add chopped parsley on top for color and fresh taste. A side salad or steamed vegetables go well with this meal. Keep plates simple so the lemon and herbs stay the star.
how to store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
Cool the chicken and rice before storing. Put into airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot all the way through.
tips to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
- Pat the chicken dry before adding sauce so the herbs stick better.
- Taste and add salt near the end if needed.
- If you want more lemon flavor, add a little extra lemon zest before serving.
- Use low sodium chicken broth to control salt.
- For a creamy touch, stir a spoon of plain yogurt into the sauce just before serving.
For another comfort meal idea, try this creamy smothered chicken and rice.
variation (if any)
- Add vegetables: carrots or green beans can go into the slow cooker in the last 2 hours.
- Use bone-in chicken for more flavor; cook time may increase.
- Swap herbs: use fresh thyme and rosemary if you have them (use more than dried).
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Thighs stay moist and work well. Cook time is similar, but check for doneness.
Q: Can I cook the rice in the slow cooker with the chicken?
A: You can, but rice can get too soft in a slow cooker. It is best to cook rice separately for fluffy texture.
Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: Yes, but brown rice needs more water and longer cooking. Cook it separately and check package directions.
Q: Do I need to sear the chicken first?
A: No. Searing adds flavor but is not needed. The slow cooker gives good taste without searing.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) or when juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
Conclusion
If you want more lemon chicken ideas, try this One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice – Creme De La Crumb for a stovetop version. For another slow cooker take, see Crockpot Chicken and Rice – No Canned Soups!. If you like one-pan meals, check One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice (with Chicken Breast!) – Simple ….
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth Use low sodium for less salt.
- 2 pieces lemons (juiced and zested) Fresh lemons for best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Extra virgin recommended.
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme Fresh thyme can be substituted.
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary Fresh rosemary can be substituted.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Rice
- 2 cups jasmine or basmati rice Rinse before cooking for fluffy texture.
- 4 cups water For cooking the rice.
Garnish
- Chopped parsley For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a slow cooker, combine chicken broth, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook the rice according to package instructions.
Serving
- Serve the chicken over fluffy rice and garnish with chopped parsley.
- Enjoy!
