Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

This slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice is a busy weeknight lifesaver. It cooks itself while you handle the day, and the lemon keeps everything bright and fresh. Prep takes minutes and cleanup is minimal. Try pairing it with a crisp salad or reach for a similar citrus roast like this Greek lemon chicken and potatoes for variety.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is built for low effort and consistent results. Sautéing the onion and garlic first wakes up their flavor so the slow cooker does not dilute the dish. Long grain rice cooks evenly in simmering broth and absorbs the lemon and herbs for a fragrant base. Cooking the chicken on top keeps it moist while the rice cooks below. It is forgiving on time so you can set it and go. If you need a playful twist, consider an easy swap like the flavors in a sweet and savory chicken wing mashup for inspiration.

Flavor and Texture

Bright lemon zest and juice cut through the savory broth for a clean finish. Thyme and rosemary add savory depth without overpowering the chicken. The rice turns out tender and slightly fluffy when cooked low and slow. Searing or sautéing the aromatics first builds a backbone of savory flavor. Fresh parsley at the end refreshes the plate and adds color.

Ingredients

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

Step by Step Instructions

1. In a slow cooker, heat the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Place the chicken on top of the sautéed onion and garlic.
4. Add the rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the slow cooker.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is fluffy.
7. Fluff the rice before serving and garnish with fresh parsley.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Trim extra prep time by buying preminced garlic and prechopped onions if you are pressed for time. Use a measuring cup to level the rice for consistent texture. If your slow cooker runs hot, check at the 4 hour mark to avoid overcooking the rice. For extra brown color on the chicken, quickly sear the breasts in a hot pan before placing them in the cooker. Finish with lemon zest and parsley right before serving for the best aroma.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat or microwave with a splash of broth to revive moisture. The dish freezes okay but texture is best when refrigerated and eaten within a few days. Portion into meal prep containers for easy grab and go lunches.

Short Closing Note

This recipe balances speed with clean, bright flavor so you get a homemade meal with minimal fuss. It scales easily and pairs well with roasted vegetables or a quick green salad.

Conclusion

For a similar one pot idea with bright citrus notes and easy technique, see One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice – Creme De La Crumb for additional inspiration and variations.

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