Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: A Zesty and Aromatic Crockpot Chicken Recipe 🍋🌿🍚
1. Introduction
Discover the hearty simplicity of lemon herb chicken rice, a flavorful and effortless slow cooker chicken dinner that promises tender chicken infused with vibrant citrus and fresh herbs. Whether you’re after a crockpot chicken recipe to spice up your weekly meal plan or a comforting dish to impress guests, this slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice is your new go-to. Its delightful aroma and wholesome ingredients make it perfect for busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike.
2. Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme or rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnishing
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3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken and Aromatics
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and lemon zest. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Transfer the chicken to the crockpot.
Cooking the Rice and Infusing Flavors
Add garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and herbs on top of the chicken in the crockpot. Pour in chicken broth, then evenly distribute the rice around the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Finishing Touches
Once cooked, gently stir the rice to absorb all the flavors. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve hot, pairing with a side of dinner vegetables or a crisp salad.
4. Storage Tips
To keep your lemon herb chicken and rice fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until steaming hot. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months, perfect for quick future meals.
5. Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker chicken dinner pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad. For a more complete meal, consider adding chicken and broccoli pasta or other pasta dishes. To elevate your meal, serve with some KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer baked breadsticks for a satisfying dinner experience.
6. Expert Tips and Variations
- Use fresh herbs like basil or dill for a different flavor profile.
- For added creaminess, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese just before serving.
- Experiment with different types of rice, like jasmine or brown rice, for variety and added nutrients.
Explore more chicken recipes for inspiration and keep your menu exciting!
7. FAQs About Lemon Herb Chicken Rice
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this crockpot chicken recipe?
A: Yes, frozen chicken breasts can be used, but you may need to add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Q: Is it necessary to marinate the chicken beforehand?
A: Marinating is optional but recommended for extra flavor. You can marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking for a more intense lemon herb taste.
Q: How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Since this recipe uses rice and broth, it is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free.
8. Conclusion
In summary, slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice offers a perfect blend of savory, citrusy, and herby flavors, making it an ideal dinner option for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends. Its effortless preparation and delicious outcome make it a crockpot chicken recipe that everyone will love. Elevate your culinary repertoire with this easy-to-make dish and enjoy tender, flavorful chicken paired with fluffy rice infused with aromatic herbs and lemons.
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Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Discover the flavorful and effortless Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, a zesty and aromatic dish perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Tender chicken infused with fresh herbs and bright citrus flavors paired with fluffy rice, all cooked to perfection in a crockpot for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme or rosemary
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley for garnishing
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and lemon zest.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear the chicken until golden on both sides. Transfer the chicken to the crockpot.
- Add garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and herbs on top of the chicken in the crockpot.
- Pour in chicken broth, then evenly distribute the rice around the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
- Once cooked, gently stir the rice to absorb all flavors. Garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve hot with vegetables or salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can use frozen chicken breasts; add an extra 30 minutes to cook time.
- Marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs beforehand enhances flavor.
- Try different herbs like basil or dill for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
