Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

There’s something about the aroma of lemon, garlic, and herbs wafting through your kitchen that makes everyone feel instantly comforted. This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice hits all the right notes: tender, juicy chicken, fluffy rice soaking up rich broth, vibrant peas, and bright hints of fresh lemon and herbs.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, lazy weekends, or even meal prep, this recipe takes minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, your slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to relax while the house fills with irresistible aromas.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or someone looking for a healthy, satisfying meal, this recipe is approachable, forgiving, and absolutely delicious.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

There are countless chicken and rice recipes, but this slow cooker version stands apart for several reasons:

• Effortless cooking: Prep in 10 minutes, then let your slow cooker do the work.
• Juicy, tender chicken: Slow cooking ensures perfectly cooked, succulent chicken every time.
• Flavorful rice: The rice absorbs aromatic broth, lemon, and herbs for a rich, savory base.
• Comfort food made healthy: Lean protein, whole vegetables, and simple ingredients.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust herbs to suit your taste.

This is the kind of meal that pleases both picky eaters and seasoned foodies alike, making it ideal for families, busy professionals, or anyone craving a warm, home-cooked dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal hands-on time: just 10 minutes prep.
• Slow cooker does all the work.
• Balanced nutrition: protein from chicken, fiber from peas, carbs from rice.
• Flavor-packed without extra calories.
• Kid-friendly yet elegant enough for guests.
• Easy to double for meal prep or gatherings.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 4 people and uses ingredients grouped for clarity.

Chicken

• 2 pounds chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs and Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Rice and Vegetables

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker (4–6 quart recommended)
• Medium skillet (optional, for searing chicken)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or spoon for stirring

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice.

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic

• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
• Add minced garlic and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Tip: Sautéing enhances flavor and prevents raw onion taste in the slow cooker.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Place chicken breasts on top of the onion-garlic mixture in the slow cooker.
• Sprinkle dried thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.

Optional: Sear chicken in the skillet for 2–3 minutes per side before adding to the slow cooker for deeper flavor.

3. Add Rice and Broth

• Pour uncooked long-grain rice around the chicken.
• Pour 4 cups chicken broth over the rice and chicken, ensuring rice is submerged.
• Drizzle 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice over everything.

Pro tip: Keeping the rice submerged ensures even cooking and prevents dry grains.

4. Cook in the Slow Cooker

• Cover with the lid.
• Cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 1.5–2 hours until chicken is fully cooked (165°F / 74°C) and rice is tender.
• Avoid opening the lid too often, as this releases steam and extends cooking time.

5. Add Peas and Finish

• Once chicken and rice are done, remove chicken and set aside.
• Stir in frozen peas to warm through.
• Slice or shred chicken and return to the slow cooker.
• Gently combine chicken, rice, and peas.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or black pepper.
• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetable swaps: Replace peas with green beans, diced carrots, or bell peppers.
• Creamier texture: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
• Chicken thighs: Use boneless, skinless thighs for juicier results; reduce cooking time slightly to avoid drying out.
• Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free with these ingredients; double-check chicken broth if using store-bought.
• Meal prep: Make in advance and store in airtight containers for 3–4 days; reheat gently in the slow cooker or microwave.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Taste: Bright lemon flavor balanced with fragrant thyme and rosemary. Juicy chicken and savory rice create a satisfying combination.
• Texture: Soft, fluffy rice, tender chicken, and crisp-tender peas.
• Best sides: Light salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. For bread lovers, garlic bread or warm baguette slices work well.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sodium: 700 mg

Dietary notes: High protein, gluten-free, lean and balanced, suitable for a healthy dinner.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Onion and garlic: Sauté in advance and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Rice and broth: Can be pre-measured and kept ready in the fridge.
• Chicken: Cook in batches and freeze for future meals.
• Reheating: Use slow cooker on low or microwave; add splash of broth if rice dries out.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice will require longer cooking time and slightly more liquid.

2. Can I cook this on high for shorter time?
Yes, high setting requires 1.5–2 hours; low is best for maximum tenderness.

3. Can I use frozen chicken?
Thawed chicken is recommended for even cooking.

4. Can this be made dairy-free?
Yes—this recipe doesn’t include dairy by default, so it’s already dairy-free.

5. How can I make it more flavorful?
Sear chicken first, add lemon zest to rice, or increase herbs slightly.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep ingredients	10 minutes
Sauté onion & garlic	5 minutes
Slow cook chicken & rice	3–4 hours (low)
Add peas & finish	5 minutes
Total	~4 hrs 20 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve directly from the slow cooker for a rustic, family-style dinner.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness.
• Optional: squeeze extra lemon juice over individual plates for brightness.

Recipe Variations

1. Mediterranean Veggie Chicken: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes during cooking.
2. Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream before serving.
3. Spicy Twist: Add ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper for mild heat.
4. One-Pot Freezer Meal: Assemble all ingredients (except peas and parsley) in freezer bag; thaw and cook in slow cooker when ready.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken Breasts: Lean, protein-packed, and versatile. Searing first locks in flavor and moisture.

Lemon: Zest and juice brighten the dish, balancing the savory herbs and chicken. Fresh lemon is always recommended over bottled juice.

Herbs: Thyme and rosemary give earthy, aromatic depth. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness at the end.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Use a high-sided slow cooker to prevent spillage.
• Ensure rice is submerged in liquid for even cooking.
• Avoid lifting the lid too often during slow cooking; each lift adds 15–20 minutes to cooking time.
• Shred chicken gently with two forks to avoid overmixing.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: 3–4 days in airtight containers.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and rice separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on stove or in microwave; add a splash of broth if rice is dry.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbohydrates	40 g
Fat	15 g
Saturated Fat	2 g
Fiber	4 g
Sodium	700 mg

Dietary notes: Gluten-free, dairy-free, protein-rich, healthy, and family-friendly.

Expanded Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort dinner that’s simple, flavorful, and satisfying. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, peas, and bright lemon-herb notes, it’s a one-pot meal you’ll come back to again and again.

Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, it’s approachable for beginner cooks yet impressive enough to serve guests. Serve it hot, garnish with parsley, and enjoy a meal that’s both healthy and comforting.

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