introduction
This slow cooker lemon herb chicken with fluffy rice is an easy, comforting meal. It uses simple ingredients and cooks slowly so the flavors blend. The rice cooks right with the chicken for less work.
why make this recipe
- It is hands-off. Put ingredients in the slow cooker and walk away.
- It makes a whole meal in one pot: protein, rice, and vegetables.
- It is bright and fresh with lemon and herbs.
- It is good for busy nights or meal prep.
how to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
Follow the simple steps below. Prep is quick, and the slow cooker does the rest.
Ingredients :
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried herbs (like thyme and rosemary)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (optional)
Directions :
- In a bowl, mix lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, dried herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the lemon herb mixture over it.
- Add chicken broth and rice to the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine.
- If using, add mixed vegetables on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is fluffy.
- Serve hot and enjoy a wholesome meal!
how to serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
- Spoon the rice and vegetables onto plates and place chicken on top.
- Garnish with extra lemon zest or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like.
- Serve with a simple green salad or steamed greens.
how to store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
- Cool to room temperature before storing.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
tips to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
- Use bone-in thighs for more flavor and juicier meat.
- Rinse the rice under cold water to remove extra starch and help it cook separate.
- If the rice is too soft, reduce broth by 1/4 cup next time.
- Check seasoning at the end and add a little salt or lemon if needed.
- Add vegetables in the last 2 hours on low so they do not overcook.
variation (if any)
- Use white wine instead of part of the chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- Swap dried herbs for 1 tablespoon fresh chopped herbs added near the end.
- Make it with brown rice: increase liquid by 1/4 cup and cook on low for about 7-8 hours.
- Add olives or capers for a briny twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes. Chicken breasts work fine. They may cook faster, so check for doneness.
Q: Can I skip the rice and cook with potatoes?
A: Yes. Use diced potatoes and adjust the broth so they cook through, about the same time.
Q: My rice turned out mushy. What went wrong?
A: Too much liquid or too long cooking can make rice mushy. Use the exact rice amount and check cooking time.
Q: Do I need to brown the chicken first?
A: No. Browning adds flavor but is not needed. The slow cooker cooks the chicken well without browning.
Q: Can I use low-sodium chicken broth?
A: Yes. Low-sodium broth is fine. Taste at the end and add salt if needed.
Conclusion
This slow cooker lemon herb chicken with fluffy rice is a simple, all-in-one meal that fits busy days. For a similar stovetop version and more ideas, see One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice – Creme De La Crumb. If you want another slow cooker take on lemon chicken and rice, check Crockpot Lemon Chicken and Rice – Lolo Home Kitchen.
Print
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A comforting, hands-off meal featuring lemon-herb chicken cooked alongside fluffy rice and mixed vegetables in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried herbs (like thyme and rosemary)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, dried herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the lemon herb mixture over it.
- Add chicken broth and rice to the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine.
- If using, add mixed vegetables on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is fluffy.
- Serve hot and enjoy a wholesome meal!
Notes
For best flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs. Rinse rice before cooking to avoid mushiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg