Slow, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this dish is the perfect choice for any busy day. The aroma of Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice wafts through your home, making everyone feel instantly at ease. Tender chicken thighs or breasts simmer in a zesty lemon and herb blend that creates a delectable sauce. When paired with fluffy rice, it transforms into a meal that’s not only satisfying but also a feast for the senses. Let’s dive into the details of this simple yet flavorful recipe!

Gather Your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken Ingredients

Before we jump into cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need to whip up this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll require:

4 chicken thighs or breasts (about 1-1.5 lbs or 450-680 grams)
2 lemons (juiced and zested)
2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (1.5 grams)
1 teaspoon dried rosemary (1.5 grams)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth (240 ml)
1 cup rice (long-grain or basmati, 200 grams)
2 cups water (480 ml)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken

Creating this dish is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.

In the slow cooker, combine the chicken, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to ensure that the chicken is well coated with the zesty marinade.
Pour in the chicken broth and give it another good stir to combine all the delicious flavors.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the rice and water to the slow cooker. Gently stir to incorporate the rice into the chicken mixture.
Cover the slow cooker and cook until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed the liquid.
Once it’s cooked, serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken

When it comes to serving this delightful meal, presentation is key. Here are some tips:

Plating: Use a shallow bowl or a plate with a rim to catch any sauce. Place the fluffy rice first, then top it with a generous helping of the lemon herb chicken.
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a fresh touch but also enhances the visual appeal of your dish.
Pairing Ideas: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. The bright flavors of those sides complement the citrusy chicken perfectly.

Useful Tips for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken

Here are some quick tips and variations to elevate your dish:

Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in some carrots or peas around the chicken for added texture and nutrition.
Zesty Twists: Experiment by adding other herbs like oregano or basil for a different flavor profile.
Meal Prep: This recipe is great for meal prep! Make a double batch and store leftovers in individual portions for quick lunches throughout the week.

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to cook it on high for at least 4 hours to ensure it reaches a safe temperature.

What type of rice works best?

While long-grain rice and basmati are recommended, you can also use jasmine rice for a fragrant twist. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Enjoy making this delicious Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice. It’s an easy way to bring a burst of flavor to your table that everyone will love!

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice

A tender and flavorful dish of chicken simmered in a zesty lemon and herb blend, served with fluffy rice.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 8

Total Time 8 15

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the chicken

4 pieces chicken thighs or breasts (about 1-1.5 lbs or 450-680 grams) Use thighs or breasts based on preference.
2 pieces lemons (juiced and zested) Fresh lemons are best.
2 tablespoons olive oil Extra virgin olive oil recommended.
3 cloves garlic (minced) Use fresh garlic for better flavor.
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
to taste salt and pepper Adjust to personal preference.
1 cup chicken broth Low sodium broth can be used.

For the rice

1 cup rice (long-grain or basmati) 200 grams recommended.
2 cups water Choose based on rice type.
to taste fresh parsley (for garnish) Chop finely before garnishing.

Method

Preparation

In the slow cooker, combine the chicken, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to ensure that the chicken is well coated with the zesty marinade.
Pour in the chicken broth and give it another good stir to combine all the delicious flavors.

Cooking

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the rice and water to the slow cooker. Gently stir to incorporate the rice into the chicken mixture.
Cover the slow cooker and cook until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed the liquid.

Serving

Once it’s cooked, serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

Feel free to add veggies such as carrots or peas for added texture and nutrition. This recipe is great for meal prep! Store leftovers in individual portions.