Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: Bright, Tender & No-Fuss Comfort

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Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a light, wholesome meal made with minimal effort—and maximum flavor. Juicy chicken slow-simmers with garlic, herbs, lemon, and tender rice in a cozy, one-pot dish that’s comforting without being heavy.

This recipe gives you perfectly seasoned, fall-apart chicken and fluffy, flavorful rice all in one go. The lemon infuses everything with a fresh, zesty brightness, while the herbs bring depth and warmth. It’s hands-off, family-friendly, and makes great leftovers for easy lunches or weeknight meals.

If you’re looking for a nourishing, satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup, this recipe will be a new go-to.

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Ingredients Overview

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts
Chicken thighs offer juicier, more flavorful results, but breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat. Both cook well in the slow cooker and shred easily when tender.

Long Grain White Rice or Jasmine Rice
Mild, fluffy, and reliable, white rice absorbs all the lemony-herb flavor as it cooks. Avoid quick-cooking or short-grain rice, which can turn mushy.

Chicken Broth
Forms the savory base of the rice. Use low-sodium broth to better control salt levels.

Lemon Juice & Zest
Fresh lemon adds brightness and balances the herbs and richness of the chicken. Zest provides an extra punch of citrus flavor without added acidity.

Garlic
Aromatics like garlic elevate the entire dish with warmth and depth.

Dried or Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary, Parsley)
Herbs infuse both chicken and rice with earthy, cozy flavor. Thyme and rosemary are ideal for slow cooking. Parsley adds a fresh finish at the end.

Olive Oil
Used to coat and flavor the chicken before cooking, adding richness without heaviness.

Salt & Pepper
Essential for seasoning the chicken and the rice base.

Optional Add-ins:
Frozen peas, spinach, or chopped carrots stirred in near the end for extra color and nutrition.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the chicken.
   Pat 1.5–2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts dry. Rub with:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon

2. Sear the chicken (optional but recommended).
   In a hot skillet, sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This adds more flavor, but you can skip if short on time.
3. Add ingredients to slow cooker.
   To a 6-quart slow cooker, add:

• 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
• 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Seasoned chicken
• Additional garlic or herbs if desired

4. Slow cook.
   Cover and cook on low for 3.5–4.5 hours, or high for 2–2.5 hours, until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F) and rice is tender.
5. Finish and fluff.
   Remove chicken and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Return chicken, shredded or whole. Stir in optional peas, spinach, or fresh parsley. Let sit covered for 5–10 minutes to allow rice to absorb remaining moisture.
6. Serve warm.
   Garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh herbs. Spoon into bowls and enjoy.

Avoid These Mistakes:

• Using uncooked brown rice—it needs a different water ratio and longer cook time.
• Skipping the rice rinse—removes excess starch and helps prevent stickiness.
• Overcooking—check early the first time to find your slow cooker’s perfect timing.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Use Brown Rice:
Parboil the rice first or cook separately and stir in at the end. Brown rice takes 6–7 hours in a slow cooker, which may dry out the chicken.

Make It Dairy-Free or Creamy:
For a creamy version, stir in 2–3 tbsp cream cheese or full-fat coconut milk at the end. The base recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Add Veggies:
Stir in frozen peas, baby spinach, or steamed broccoli just before serving for extra fiber and color.

Use Fresh Herbs:
Add chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley at the end for more vibrant flavor.

Add Heat:
Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.

Make It a Freezer Meal:
Assemble all ingredients (except rice) in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight, add rice and broth, and cook as directed.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, roasted asparagus, or steamed green beans. Serve with a lemon wedge for added brightness or a drizzle of olive oil for richness.

It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a cozy Sunday meal. The leftovers pack well and reheat easily, making it great for work lunches or freezer portions.

Pair with sparkling water, herbal tea, or a crisp white wine like sauvignon blanc for a balanced meal.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This slow cooker chicken and rice is balanced with lean protein, complex carbs, and fresh herbs for flavor—no heavy sauces or unnecessary fats. The lemon adds vitamin C and a clean finish, while rice keeps you full and satisfied.

Use bone broth or collagen-rich stock for added protein. Stir in greens at the end for an extra nutrition boost.

It’s naturally gluten-free, customizable for dairy-free or low-fat diets, and ideal for busy cooks who want clean, real-food comfort.

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FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, just monitor cook time. Breasts may be done slightly earlier and can dry out if overcooked.

Does the rice get mushy?
No, as long as you rinse it first and don’t overcook. Stick to long grain rice and avoid quick-cooking types.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a larger slow cooker and stir halfway through if possible to prevent uneven cooking.

How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of broth.

Can I freeze it?
Yes—freeze in single portions. Thaw overnight and reheat gently. The rice may soften slightly but remains tasty.

Can I cook it on the stovetop or in the oven?
Yes. Sauté the chicken and cook rice separately or together in a Dutch oven at 350°F for about 40 minutes covered.

Can I use lemon pepper seasoning?
You can! Reduce added salt if using a store-bought blend that already includes it.

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