Print

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a bright, comforting, one‑pot meal with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a fragrant lemony herb broth. It’s effortless to make and perfect for busy days or family dinners.

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

Instructions

  1. Optional: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs, and sear in a skillet with olive oil until lightly browned, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  2. Add uncooked rice, minced garlic, chopped onion, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth to the slow cooker.
  3. Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 2.5–3 hours, until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
  4. Just before serving, fluff the rice with a fork and gently mix in peas or spinach if using.
  5. Serve warm, garnished with lemon slices and fresh herbs for extra brightness.

Notes

  • Use brown rice for a heartier version—add extra broth and increase cook time.
  • Add sun‑dried tomatoes or artichokes for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Switch herbs to basil, oregano, or dill for variety.
  • Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream at the end for a creamier finish.
  • Do not lift the lid frequently during cooking to keep rice fluffy.

Nutrition