Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Tender, juicy chicken slow-cooked to perfection with zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and fluffy rice. Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. This dish stands out with its rich flavors and comforting aromas that fill your kitchen. It’s an easy recipe that anyone can make, making it ideal for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just set it and forget it! The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.
• Flavor-packed Dish: The combination of lemon, herbs, and spices guarantees a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion—dinner parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from peas and rice, this meal is both healthy and satisfying.
• Minimal Cleanup: One pot means less mess in the kitchen. Enjoy your meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for even cooking over a long period, ensuring your chicken remains tender.
• Skillet: Used for sautéing onions and garlic to enhance their flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

• Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

• Transfer the cooked onion and garlic mixture to the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Place the chicken breasts on top of the onion and garlic mixture.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

• Sprinkle dried thyme, dried rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken breasts.

Step 4: Add Rice and Broth

• Add uncooked rice around the chicken in the slow cooker.
• Pour chicken broth over the rice and chicken, ensuring that rice is submerged in liquid.

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice

• Drizzle fresh lemon juice over everything in the slow cooker.

Step 6: Cook

• Cover with a lid. Set to cook on low for 3–4 hours or on high for 1.5–2 hours until chicken is fully cooked and rice is tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

• Once cooking time is complete, remove chicken breasts from slow cooker; set aside.
• Stir in frozen peas into rice mixture, allowing them to warm through.

Step 8: Combine Everything

• Shred or slice chicken breasts; return them to slow cooker. Mix everything together gently.

Step 9: Adjust Seasoning

• Taste the mixture; adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 10: Serve

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over top just before serving. Enjoy hot with both chicken and rice on each plate!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Serving Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a delightful experience, thanks to its vibrant flavors and comforting texture. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that elevate its taste even further.

Fresh Green Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the savory chicken and rice beautifully.

Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the flavorful broth. It adds a satisfying crunch to your meal.

Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and nutrition to your plate. Their sweetness balances the dish perfectly.

Lemon Wedges

• Providing lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze extra citrus over their servings, enhancing the zesty flavor of the chicken.

Yogurt Sauce

• A cool yogurt sauce with herbs can be drizzled over the chicken for a refreshing twist. It adds creaminess and tang to each bite.

Chopped Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with additional chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro not only brightens up the dish but also enhances its aromatic qualities.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

To ensure your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these simple tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality chicken significantly enhance flavor. Opt for organic or free-range chicken if possible.
• Sauté Your Aromatics: Browning onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker deepens their flavor, making your dish more aromatic.
• Adjust Liquid Levels: Depending on your slow cooker model, you may need to adjust the amount of broth used. More liquid can lead to a soupier consistency.
• Check Seasonings: Always taste before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps meld flavors together before serving.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli brings a healthy crunch that complements the creamy rice.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture of mashed potatoes makes for a hearty addition alongside this chicken dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with vegetables provides a nutritious boost while adding an interesting texture contrast.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic glaze offer a deliciously crispy side that contrasts well with tender chicken.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a classic side that adds sweetness and brightness to your plate.
6. Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad adds richness through creamy dressing while providing crispness against the hearty chicken and rice.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots gives a refreshing crunch that balances out the meal nicely.
8. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are perfect for sopping up any leftover broth—an irresistible combination!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, avoiding common mistakes can improve your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Ignoring the cooking time: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended times for best results.
• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season adequately can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you use enough salt and herbs.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Adding too much food can prevent even cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for heat circulation.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing onions and garlic enhances their flavors. Don’t skip this important step for a richer taste.
• Using the wrong rice type: Long-grain rice works best in this recipe. Avoid short-grain varieties, which can become mushy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

• item Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers.
• item Use within 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice.

How do I make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice spicy?

You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking for a spicy kick.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the liquid and cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Is Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with lean protein, herbs, and vegetables, making it a nutritious option.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is not only easy to prepare but also offers rich flavors that satisfy everyone at the table. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or spices based on your preference!