Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: A Refreshing and Easy Crock Pot Meal ๐๐๐ฟ
1. Introduction
If youโre searching for Crock Pot Meals For Two that are both flavorful and effortless, your search ends here. This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe combines zesty citrus, aromatic herbs, and tender chickenโall cooked to perfection in your trusty slow cooker. Perfect for kid-friendly crock pot recipes or busy weeknights, this recipe ensures youโll have a wholesome meal with minimal prep. Whether youโre after 2 Hour Crockpot Recipes, or delicious Lazy Dinners Crockpot options, this dish checks all the boxes for a simple, summer evening or a cold day when comfort food is needed.
2. Ingredients for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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3. How to Prepare Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice in a Crock Pot
**Preparation of Chicken and Herb Mixture**
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry and seasoning them with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and rosemary. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly golden. This step ensures extra flavor before slow cooking. Once seared, transfer the chicken to your crock pot. For convenient kitchen prep, consider using the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master.
**Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker**
In a bowl, mix the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Add the rice evenly around the chicken, making sure itโs submerged in the flavorful broth. Cover the slow cooker with its lid, set to low for approximately 4 hours or high for about 2 hours, depending on your schedule and the specific slow cooker model.
**Cook and Serve**
Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ยฐF. The rice should be tender and flavorful. Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. For optimal results, consider using the Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 for quick side dishes or veggies. Serve the lemon herb chicken and rice hot, paired with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner idea when sick or a quick summer dinner idea.
4. Storage Tips for Your Leftover Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container like the JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave or warm in a skillet until evenly heated. This makes for fantastic easy prep for busy weeknights or โtake-to-workโ lunches.
5. Serving Suggestions and Variations
For a complete meal, serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness. Looking to switch it up? Incorporate seasonal herbs like basil or cilantro, or add extra veggies such as diced bell peppers or spinach. For a hearty twist, try pairing it with a warm crusty bread or homemade banana bread.
6. Why Choose This Crock Pot Meal? Benefits & Advantages
This recipe exemplifies the advantages of dinners for hot days or lazy dinners crockpot. The slow cooker does all the work, creating tender chicken infused with lemon and herbs, with minimal fuss. Itโs an ideal kid-friendly crock pot recipe that pleases everyone and is perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Plus, the flavor is so good, you wonโt believe itโs so easy to prepare!
7. Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add richness and stay more tender during slow cooking.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, just ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free and serve with gluten-free rice options.
- How do I adapt this for larger families? Upgrade to a Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker and double the ingredients.
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Yes, it stores well and makes great leftovers for busy weekdays.
8. Final Tips for Making the Perfect Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ensure your lemon juice is freshly squeezed for the best flavor, and avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it moist. Using aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary enhances the flavor profile, making this easy dinner recipe for family crockpot a favorite. Need kitchen tools? The EUHOMY Portable Rapid Ice Maker can chill drinks fast to complement your summery meal.
9. Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for simple dinner ideas that scrape the bottom of the prep time barrel without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for kid approved crockpot meals, summer dinners, or chilly evenings, this dish proves that delicious can be effortless. Gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy a nutritious and tasty meal with minimal fuss. Happy cooking!
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Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Author: Maria
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Enjoy a delicious and effortless Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe thatโs bursting with citrus flavor, fragrant herbs, and tender chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this one-pot meal combines the zest of fresh lemons with aromatic herbs for a refreshing dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sear chicken 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to slow cooker.
- In a bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Pour over chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add rice evenly around the chicken, ensuring itโs submerged in the broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for about 2 hours until chicken reaches 165ยฐF and rice is tender.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Searing the chicken enhances flavor but can be skipped for quicker prep.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best citrus flavor.
- Replace chicken breasts with thighs for a richer taste.
- This dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-4 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: fifty-two grams
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg