why make this recipe

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice is not just easy to make; it’s also packed with flavor. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs create a delicious sauce that tenderizes the chicken while cooking. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days. Plus, with fluffy rice soaking up all the tasty juices, this dish becomes a wholesome meal the entire family will love.

how to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
2 lemons (juiced and zested)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup rice
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Directions:

In a slow cooker, mix together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken breasts to the slow cooker and coat them in the sauce.
Pour chicken broth over the chicken.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, add rice to the slow cooker, ensuring it’s submerged in the cooking liquid.
Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and serve the chicken on top of the rice.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

how to serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice

To serve, place a generous scoop of fluffy rice on the plate and top it with a piece of the lemon herb chicken. Spoon some of the delicious cooking sauce over the chicken and rice. If you have fresh herbs, sprinkle those on top for extra flavor and a pop of color.

how to store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice

To store leftovers, let the chicken and rice cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

tips to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon and herb mixture for a few hours before cooking.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken once it’s cooked, then thicken the sauce by simmering it on the stove for a few minutes.
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas when you add the rice for a complete one-pot meal.

variation

You can easily switch up the flavor by using different herbs or adding spices. Try rosemary or basil for a different taste. If you want to make this dish a bit heartier, add black beans or chickpeas to the slow cooker along with the rice.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Just increase the cooking time by about an hour.

2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. If using brown rice, add it to the slow cooker at the start instead of 30 minutes before serving.

3. What can I do if the chicken is dry?
Dry chicken may result from overcooking. To prevent this, always check the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect tenderness. If it ends up dry, consider adding some chicken broth or sauce when serving.

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice