Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
A comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and wholesome brown rice, perfect for family dinners any day of the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts) Tender and juicy, these are the heart of the recipe.
- 1 cup Brown rice Whole grain goodness that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- 2 cups Chicken broth Enhances flavor and keeps everything moist.
- 1 large Fresh lemon juice Adds a bright, tangy taste.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon zest Provides a strong lemon flavor.
- 3 cloves Garlic Essential for that warm, savory undertone.
- 1 teaspoon Dried rosemary Infuses the chicken with fragrant flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme Timeless herb that complements the dish.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For moisture and a hint of richness.
- To taste Salt Simple seasoning to enhance flavors.
- To taste Pepper Simple seasoning to enhance flavors.
- 2 tablespoons Butter (optional) For creaminess.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken thighs (or breasts) with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
- In a skillet (optional but recommended), heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about 1 minute.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add brown rice, sautéed garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, and a touch more salt and pepper.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- Check doneness: When it’s ready, the chicken should effortlessly shred with a fork, and the rice should be tender.
- If it looks a bit dry, feel free to stir in a tablespoon or two of butter for extra richness.
Serving
- Scoop the comforting dish into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices, and enjoy!
Notes
This dish shines as a make-ahead option! Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Letting the chicken marinate in lemon juice and herbs for a couple of hours beforehand can intensify the flavors. Slow cooker liners make clean-up a breeze!