Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further! This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is your answer to deliciousness without the fuss. Imagine tender chicken infused with bright lemon and savory herbs, all nestled in perfectly cooked rice. Inspired by cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a healthy and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the magic of this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

• Effortless Prep: Just 15 minutes to assemble, then let the slow cooker do its thing.
• Tender and Flavorful Chicken: The slow cooking process guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken every time.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooking together in one pot.
• Customizable Veggies: Easily adapt the vegetables to your family’s preferences and what you have on hand.
• Healthy and Balanced: A complete meal with protein, carbs, and veggies.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients for a satisfying and economical dinner.
• Aromatic Delight: The lemon and herb aroma will fill your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Ingredients Needed for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful and comforting dish:

• Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup (120ml). Use a low-sodium variety to control the saltiness.
• Long-Grain Rice: 1 cup (200g), rinsed. Rinsing removes excess starch for fluffier rice.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: 2 lbs (900g). Chicken thighs are more forgiving in the slow cooker and stay moist.
• Lemon: 1, thinly sliced. Use organic if possible, as you’ll be using the peel.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml). A good quality olive oil adds richness and flavor.
• Dried Italian Herbs: 1 tablespoon. Toasting the herbs lightly in a dry pan for a minute unlocks their aroma.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. For a stronger garlic flavor, use 2-3 cloves of minced fresh garlic instead.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon. Adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon. Freshly ground pepper adds a bolder flavor.
• Chopped Vegetables: 2 cups (300g) (broccoli, carrots, peas). Feel free to use a frozen veggie mix for convenience.

For the herbs, consider sourcing fresh ones from a local farmer’s market when in season for the most vibrant taste.

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Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these on hand before you begin:

• Slow Cooker: A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Knife: For slicing the lemon and chopping vegetables (if using fresh).
• Cutting Board: To protect your countertops while prepping.

A vegetable chopper can be a handy tool for quickly prepping the veggies.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)

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• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is easy to scale; just adjust the ingredients accordingly!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Follow these simple steps for a guaranteed delicious outcome:

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker.
2. Add the rinsed rice, spreading it evenly over the bottom of the slow cooker. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Layer the Chicken and Lemon

1. Place the chicken thighs on top of the rice, arranging them in a single layer.
2. Arrange the lemon slices over the chicken. The lemon infuses the chicken with its bright, citrusy flavor.

3rd Step : Season Generously

1. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and lemon.
2. Sprinkle the Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken. Ensure every piece of chicken is well-seasoned.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Add the Veggies and Finish

1. Stir in the chopped vegetables during the last 30 minutes of cooking time. This ensures they’re tender-crisp and not mushy.
2. Let the dish stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

If the rice looks dry after cooking, add a splash of chicken broth and fluff with a fork.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the correct internal temperature.
• Rinse the Rice: Rinsing removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the dish after cooking and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
• Use Fresh Lemon: Freshly sliced lemon provides the best flavor.
• Don’t Peek: Avoid lifting the lid frequently during cooking, as this releases heat and can prolong the cooking time.

Variations & Substitutions

• Protein: Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but reduce the cooking time to prevent them from drying out.
• Vegetables: Try adding other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Herbs: Use fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a more vibrant flavor.
• Rice: Experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice or basmati rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

This dish pairs well with:

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Roasted asparagus or green beans.
• Crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful juices.
• A refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon.

Serve this as a comforting weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering.

Health Benefits

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits:

• Chicken: Provides lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
• Rice: Offers carbohydrates for energy and fiber for digestive health.
• Vegetables: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, boosting overall health.
• Lemon: Rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system.

One serving is a well-rounded meal providing essential nutrients for a balanced diet.

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out.
• Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ensure the dish is completely cooled before storing to prevent bacterial growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Prevent the Rice from Becoming Mushy?

Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming mushy. Also, avoid overcooking the rice by monitoring the liquid levels and cooking time.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken?

It’s not recommended to use frozen chicken in a slow cooker due to food safety concerns. Thaw the chicken completely before adding it to the slow cooker.

Can I Add the Vegetables at the Beginning?

Adding the vegetables at the beginning can result in them becoming overcooked and mushy. It’s best to add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.

Can I Use Brown Rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. You may need to adjust the cooking time and add extra chicken broth.

How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more comforting and flavorful meals? Check out these other delicious recipes:

• Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips – Indulge in a cheesy and satisfying combination.
• Thai Peanut Chicken Wraps – Experience the exotic flavors of Thailand in a simple wrap.
• Easy One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta – Enjoy a creamy and comforting pasta dish with minimal cleanup.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a simple, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked rice create a comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your culinary masterpiece! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking! Let us know how it goes in the comments below!

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