Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

When it comes to comfort food that practically cooks itself, few dishes rival the warm, fragrant appeal of Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. This recipe is a weeknight hero—flavorful, fuss-free, and packed with nourishing ingredients.

What makes this dish stand out is its zesty lemon profile paired with a fragrant blend of herbs and tender slow-cooked chicken. It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy families or meal preppers looking for simplicity without sacrificing taste.

For those cautious about food safety, always ensure your chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature. You can check out the USDA’s poultry cooking guidelines for peace of mind before serving.

And if you’ve ever struggled with cooking rice in a slow cooker, there are smart tricks to avoid sogginess. This method keeps the rice fluffy and flavorful without overcooking. For more expert techniques, check out The Kitchn’s rice-in-slow-cooker tutorial.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal prep, maximum flavor
• Perfectly tender chicken thighs infused with citrus and herbs
• One-pot cooking = easy cleanup
• Works great for meal prep and leftovers
• Balanced and family-friendly flavors

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious slow cooker meal to life:

• 4 boneless chicken thighs
• 1/2 lemon (zest + juice)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Jasmine rice
• 1/4 cup water
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• Chopped spinach or kale for greens
• Sliced mushrooms or carrots
• A splash of cream or Greek yogurt for a richer version

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Layer the chicken
   Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Mix the lemon base
   In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Pour over the chicken.
3. Add seasonings
   Mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, paprika, and Italian seasoning in a ramekin. Sprinkle evenly over the chicken.
4. Add garlic
   Top the seasoned chicken with minced garlic.
5. Cook low and slow
   Cover and cook:

• On high for 2–3 hours
• Or low for 6–8 hours
  The chicken should be fall-apart tender.

1. Add rice
   About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the rice and water. Cover again and continue cooking on low until the rice is fully cooked.
2. Serve and garnish
   Spoon the lemon chicken and rice into bowls and top with fresh parsley.

Cooking Tips

• Don’t over-stir the rice once added—this can make it mushy.
• Use Jasmine rice for the best result; it cooks quickly and absorbs flavor well.
• To make this a full meal, add vegetables like green beans or zucchini during the last hour of cooking.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne or extra chili flakes
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt before serving
• Mediterranean Style: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta
• Kid-Friendly: Use mild seasoning and serve with grated cheese on top

Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving)

• Calories: 340
• Protein: 20g
• Carbs: 20g
• Fat: 19g
• Sodium: 437mg
• Fiber: 1g

Storage and Reheating

• Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days
• Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore moisture
• Freezes well—consider storing rice and chicken separately for best texture

Serving Suggestions

• A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans
• A side of garlic aioli for dipping

People Also Ask – FAQs

Can I cook rice in a slow cooker with chicken?
Yes! Just add it during the last 20–30 minutes so it doesn’t overcook.

Can I use brown rice?
You can, but it requires a longer cook time and more liquid. Add it earlier if using.

Should I sear the chicken before slow cooking?
It’s optional. Searing adds flavor and texture but isn’t necessary for this recipe.

Can I make this gluten-free or dairy-free?
Absolutely. This recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as written.

How do I stop rice from getting mushy in the slow cooker?
Add it late, don’t over-stir, and measure liquid carefully.

Nutritional Benefits of Lemon

Lemon not only adds flavor—it has health benefits too. It’s rich in vitamin C, supports digestion, and brightens up savory dishes naturally. For more benefits, read this article on lemon’s health properties.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is your answer to effortless weekday dinners that are both wholesome and comforting. It’s a dish you’ll come back to over and over for its simplicity, flavor, and flexibility. Whether you keep it classic or experiment with your own twist, this meal never disappoints.

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