There’s something special about a meal that simmers away all day, filling your home with cozy, comforting aromas. This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is one of those recipes—it’s fresh, hearty, and flavorful while being wonderfully easy to make.
Tender chicken, zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and fluffy rice come together in one pot, making this the perfect family-style dinner for a busy weeknight or a slow, cozy weekend. With just a few minutes of prep, you can let the slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy the comfort of knowing dinner is taken care of.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinner / Chicken |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 4–6 hours |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Calories | ~390 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for color and freshness)
- ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the slow cooker
Lightly grease the insert of your slow cooker with olive oil or nonstick spray. - Layer the ingredients
Add rice, onion, and garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Stir gently to combine. - Season the chicken
Rub chicken with oregano, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Place seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture. - Cook low and slow
Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the rice is fully cooked. - Add peas & fluff
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas if using. Use a fork to gently fluff the rice before serving. - Finish & serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. A drizzle of extra lemon juice brightens everything up.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Check the rice: Every slow cooker is different—if rice looks too dry, add a splash more broth halfway through cooking.
- Use thighs for juiciness: Chicken thighs stay extra tender and moist during slow cooking.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.
Recipe Variations
- Protein swap: Use turkey breasts, or even tofu for a different twist.
- Veggie boost: Add chopped carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the onion and garlic.
- Creamy version: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a silky finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp side salad for freshness.
- Add a loaf of warm, crusty bread for soaking up extra flavors.
- Serve with roasted asparagus or green beans to round out the meal.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with happy hearts and full plates. It’s fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-comforting—perfect for when you want a delicious dinner with minimal effort. Let the slow cooker do its magic, and savor the cozy results with your loved ones.