Name: Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491152H31M2S
Total time: PT-491152H31M2S
Cuisine: American / Comfort
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice or jasmine rice; 3 cups chicken broth; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh); 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tbsp fresh); 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: 1 cup peas or spinach for added color and nutrition; Optional garnish: lemon slices and extra fresh herbs

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Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a bright, comforting, and hands-off meal that’s perfect for busy days. Tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and fluffy rice all cook together in one pot, soaked in a light lemony broth that fills the kitchen with irresistible aroma. It’s a wholesome, well-balanced dish I can count on when I want something simple but satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a true one-pot wonder. The chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the rice soaks up all the lemony, herby flavors as it cooks. I can prep everything in the morning, turn on the slow cooker, and come back to a warm, complete meal by dinner time. Plus, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Long grain white rice or jasmine rice
Chicken broth
Fresh lemon juice and zest
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Olive oil
Dried or fresh herbs (like thyme, rosemary, and parsley)
Salt and black pepper
Optional: peas or spinach for added color and nutrition
Optional garnish: lemon slices and chopped fresh herbs

Directions

I season the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs, then sear it lightly in a skillet with olive oil for extra flavor (optional but worth it).
In the slow cooker, I add uncooked rice, minced garlic, onion, lemon juice and zest, and chicken broth.
I place the chicken on top of the rice mixture, cover, and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or high for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the rice is fluffy and the chicken is cooked through.
Just before serving, I fluff the rice with a fork and mix in peas or spinach if I want to add some greens.
I serve it warm, garnished with lemon slices and fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people and takes about 5 to 6 hours on low or 2.5 to 3 hours on high. It’s great for prepping in the morning and having dinner ready by evening with no last-minute stress.

Variations

I sometimes use brown rice for a heartier version, but I increase the broth and cooking time slightly.
For more lemon flavor, I add a few slices of lemon on top of the chicken while it cooks.
I occasionally mix in sun-dried tomatoes or chopped artichokes for a Mediterranean twist.
I switch up the herbs depending on what I have—basil, oregano, or even dill work wonderfully.
If I want a creamy finish, I stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream at the end.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, I microwave individual portions with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist. It also reheats well in a skillet over medium heat. Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?

I always thaw the chicken first for food safety and even cooking. Using frozen chicken in the slow cooker is not recommended.

Will the rice get mushy?

Not if I use long grain rice and follow the timing. I also avoid stirring too much during cooking so the rice stays fluffy.

Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs?

Yes, I often use boneless thighs for more flavor and tenderness. They hold up beautifully in the slow cooker.

Can I cook the rice separately?

If I prefer firmer rice or need more control, I cook it separately and add it during the last 30 minutes to soak up the flavor without overcooking.

What vegetables go well with this dish?

I usually add peas or spinach at the end, but green beans, carrots, or zucchini also work great—just add them halfway through cooking so they stay tender.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is one of my favorite effortless meals. It’s bright, hearty, and nourishing, with minimal prep and cleanup. Whether I’m cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish brings comforting flavors and a welcome touch of freshness to the table every time.