Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: The Perfect Lazy Dinner for Summer 🍋✨🥘
1. Introduction
Are you searching for a delicious and effortless meal that can be prepared with minimal effort? Look no further than our Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe! Designed as an easy crock pot meal, this dish is perfect for lazy dinners crockpot enthusiasts, 2 hour crockpot recipes, and anyone looking for kid-friendly crockpot recipes. Its bright flavors, tender chicken, and fluffy rice make it a great dinner idea when sick or for hot summer days when you want a summer dinner easy dish that’s both satisfying and light. Plus, its quick prep makes it an ideal easy dinner recipe for family crockpot.
2. Ingredients for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added color and flavor
3. How to Prepare the Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all ingredients listed above. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to prevent sticking, and zester the lemon to add brightness to your cooked dish. For a more creamy twist, add a splash of coconut milk at the end of cooking.
Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated with the flavorful herbs and lemon.
Layer in the Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker (Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker recommended). Spread the rinsed rice over the chicken, then pour the chicken broth over everything. Add the lemon juice on top for an extra burst of citrus.
Cook the Dish
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender. For a touch of freshness, stir in chopped parsley just before serving.
Serve and Garnish
Garnish with additional lemon slices and parsley for presentation. Serve hot, perhaps with a side salad or your favorite crockpot vegetables.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Store any leftovers in airtight containers like the JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and easy meal the next day. This dish makes a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights or a winter stew substitute.
5. Serving Suggestions and Variations
For a complete meal, pair the Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. Customize the dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to enhance both nutrition and flavor. For a more creamy taste, stir in some cream cheese or Greek yogurt before serving.
Looking for a kid-friendly twist? Replace lemon with mild herbs like basil or oregano, and serve with pasta or garlic bread. It’s also an excellent option for dinners for hot days because it doesn’t heat up the house when cooked in the slow cooker.
6. FAQs About Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This slow cooker chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep. Prepare everything in advance, store in the refrigerator, and cook when needed.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Brown rice takes longer to cook and may require an extra 30-45 minutes in the slow cooker.
Is this dish suitable for kids?
Definitely! This kid approved crockpot meal is gentle, flavorful, and easy to eat. For more family-friendly recipes, visit our chicken category for other ideas.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach during the last hour of cooking for a colorful and nutritious twist.
7. Final Tips for Perfect Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
For the best results, use fresh lemon juice and herbs whenever possible. Investing in good quality cookware like the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set can make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable. Always check the chicken’s internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C), to ensure food safety.
8. Related Quick and Easy Crockpot Recipes
9. Conclusion
The Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe is a fantastic crock pot meal that combines simplicity, freshness, and flavor. It’s perfect for dinner ideas when sick, busy weeknights, or hot summer days when you want easy summer dinner options that everyone will love. Try this slow cooker recipe today and enjoy a wholesome, kid-approved meal that’s ready with minimal effort!
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Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 10 minutes prep + 4-6 hours cooking
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Enjoy a delicious and effortless summer dinner with our Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. This easy crock pot recipe features tender chicken breasts infused with fresh lemon and herbs, paired with fluffy rice and optional vegetables for a light, savory meal perfect for lazy evenings. Ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or hot summer days when you want a satisfying dish that’s both quick to prepare and full of bright flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added color and flavor
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water. Zest and juice the lemon, setting aside the lemon juice for later.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Spread the rinsed rice over the chicken, then pour the chicken broth evenly over everything. Add the lemon juice on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
- Just before serving, stir in chopped parsley for freshness. Garnish with lemon slices and additional parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end of cooking.
- Use fresh herbs and lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach in the last hour for extra nutrition.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400 Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
