Description
This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with aromatic herbs, zesty lemon, and fluffy long-grain white rice. Slow cooking infuses the dish with rich flavors while making preparation easy and hands-off. A perfect comforting meal that’s simple yet impressive.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Rice and Broth Mixture
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
Garnish
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to ensure the flavors penetrate well.
- Sear the Chicken (optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step adds extra flavor and texture but can be skipped if preferred.
- Combine Rice and Broth: In a bowl, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Mix well.
- Pour Mixture into Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared (or raw) chicken breasts to the slow cooker and carefully pour the rice mixture over the top, ensuring the rice is submerged.
- Add Lemon Slices: Arrange lemon slices evenly over the rice and chicken for added citrus aroma and taste while cooking.
- Set the Slow Cooker: Cover with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and rice is tender.
- Check for Doneness: About 30 minutes before serving, check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure safe consumption.
- Fluff the Rice: Remove the chicken breasts, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate grains, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Shred the chicken or serve the breasts whole over the rice. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and additional lemon slices as desired.
Notes
- Searing the chicken is optional but recommended for added flavor and color.
- You can substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice, but cooking time may need to be adjusted.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best citrus flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
