Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

BY :

Ovia Smith

Posted On :

September 1, 2025

Welcome to a culinary adventure that will transform your dinner table into a haven of flavors! Today, we are diving into the vibrant, zesty world of our Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the savory goodness of herbs, creating a delightful harmony that your taste buds will thank you for. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of tender chicken and fluffy rice, all infused with the essence of lemon and a medley of herbs. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully together. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile: serve it as a hearty main course, or pair it with a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Let’s embark on this delicious journey together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is more than just a recipe; it’s a game-changer in your kitchen. Here are several reasons why it deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation:

Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish cooking away in your slow cooker. No need to stand over the stove or fuss with complicated techniques. Just prep the ingredients, set your cooker, and let it work its magic!
Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of lemon juice, zest, and fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, and rosemary creates a light yet rich flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds. Each bite is a burst of freshness, making it a perfect comfort food.
Healthy Ingredients: This recipe features lean chicken breasts, wholesome rice, and nutritious peas, making it a well-balanced meal. It’s a great way to incorporate protein and fiber into your diet without sacrificing taste.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish. The comforting flavors and appealing presentation are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters. Serve it up with a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color!
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, maintaining its delicious flavors.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that combines simplicity with flavor, the Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is your answer. Here’s why you should try it:

Time-Saving: With the busy schedules we all have, finding time to cook can be a challenge. The slow cooker allows you to prep in the morning and come home to a fully cooked meal.
Customizable: Don’t hesitate to adapt the recipe to suit your tastes! Add your favorite vegetables, switch up the herbs, or even use brown rice for a healthier option.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is versatile enough to fit any occasion. It’s comforting enough for family dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining.
Aromatic Kitchen: Cooking with lemon and herbs fills your kitchen with delightful aromas, making it a pleasure to be in your home. You’ll find yourself looking forward to mealtime!
Budget-Friendly: Chicken breasts and pantry staples like rice and broth make this recipe cost-effective. You can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without breaking the bank.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To whip up this delightful Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Recommended Tools or Utensils

Slow cooker: Essential for this recipe, allowing for hands-off cooking.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Cutting board and knife: For dicing onions and mincing garlic.
Mixing bowl: To combine the lemon juice, zest, and herbs.
Forks: For shredding the cooked chicken.

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the detailed steps for making this scrumptious Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice.

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. This will enhance the flavor profile of your dish. Zest and juice the lemon, setting both aside for later use.
Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: In your slow cooker, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Next, pour in the long-grain white rice to create a base for the chicken.
Season the Chicken: Take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and rosemary. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with flavor. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture in the slow cooker.
Add Liquid: Pour the chicken broth, along with the lemon juice and zest, over the chicken and rice. This liquid will cook the rice and keep the chicken moist. Make sure everything is well combined.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be thoroughly cooked, and the rice should be tender. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this will release heat and prolong the cooking time.
Add Peas: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. They will heat through and add a pop of color and nutrition to your dish.
Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix well with the rice and peas.
Garnish and Serve: Serve your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and added flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly for best results.

Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?

Absolutely! The Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

What herbs can I substitute if I don’t have thyme, oregano, or rosemary?

You can substitute with Italian seasoning or any dried herbs you have on hand, such as basil or parsley, to achieve a similar flavor profile.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken before cooking. Adjust to your spice preference!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a delightful, flavorful dish that brings together the best of convenience and taste. It’s perfect for families, meal prep, or anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle. We hope you try this recipe and experience the joy it brings to your kitchen!

Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below, and if you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends and family! Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out these links: Quick & Easy Carnivore Tuna Melt Patties and Greek Yogurt Cookie Dough Keto Recipe. For more lemony delights, visit our Pinterest board: Ovia Recipes on Pinterest.