Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Name: Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the zesty and aromatic delights of this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe. Tender chicken is infused with fresh lemon and a medley of herbs, making it a flavorful and satisfying dish that cooks effortlessly in your crockpot. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting meal pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, creating a wholesome dinner your family will love.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-10T08:05:06.062Z

This dish brings together the simplicity of slow cooking and the brightness of lemon and herbs, creating a meal that is both delicious and nourishing.

The Benefits of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking isn't just a convenient method; it's a way to enhance the flavors of your ingredients. When you use a slow cooker, your chicken and rice absorb the aromatic essence of the herbs and lemon juice over time. This slow infusion results in a dish that's bursting with flavor, ensuring every bite is deliciously savory. Plus, slow cooking lets you set it and forget it, giving you extra time to unwind or spend with family while dinner simmers away.

Another great benefit of slow cooking is the ability to create tender, juicy meals. Cooking your chicken slowly in chicken broth helps retain moisture, preventing it from drying out. The low and slow method also breaks down tougher cuts of meat, making them incredibly tender and easy to pull apart. In this recipe, the chicken breasts transform into succulent, herb-infused delights that practically melt in your mouth, paired perfectly with fluffy, flavorful rice.

Perfect Pairings

While this dish of Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is satisfying on its own, consider adding some side dishes to elevate your meal. A refreshing green salad with a simple vinaigrette can add a crunchy texture and balance the zestiness of the lemon. You could also round out the meal with steamed or roasted vegetables, like asparagus or green beans, for a colorful plate that incorporates more nutrients.

Another wonderful accompaniment is a slice of crusty bread. Not only will it soak up the delicious broth left in your slow cooker, but it also enhances the overall dining experience. A warm, buttery roll can be the perfect touch, inviting family and friends to gather around the table and enjoy. Plus, leftovers can be creatively transformed into a new dish, making this meal a smart choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Steps

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, and rosemary.

Combine Ingredients

Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, and add the rice and chicken broth on top.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and the rice is cooked.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in a freezer-safe container. This dish freezes well, and can last up to three months in the freezer, making meal prep a breeze for future busy days.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating from frozen, allow the chicken and rice to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best results. A splash of chicken broth or water can help revive the dish and prevent it from drying out during reheating, ensuring every bite remains as delightful as the first.

Customizations and Variations

One of the wonderful aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize the herbs to suit your taste. If you love the flavor of dill or oregano, consider substituting these for the thyme or rosemary. You might even want to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a great platform to experiment with different flavors and aromas.

For a heartier version of this dish, you can include additional vegetables during the cooking process. Adding diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers not only enhances the visuals but also boosts the nutritional value. Just toss them in with the rice and broth, and let the slow cooker work its magic. This makes for a one-pot meal that’ll please everyone at the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.

→ What can I pair this dish with?

This meal pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.