Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: A Flavorful & Healthy Crockpot Delight 🍋🍗🍚
1. Introduction
Discover the ultimate **Chicken Recipe Slow Cooker** that combines tender, juicy chicken with zesty lemon and fresh herbs in a simple, foolproof recipe. This **Healthy Crock Recipes** dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a wholesome and delicious meal without fuss. Embrace the convenience of **Crockpot** cooking with this flavorful **Chicken In A Slow Cooker Recipes**, designed to deliver a satisfying **Whole Food Crock Pot Meals** experience. Whether you’re a fan of **Minute Rice Crockpot Recipes** or seeking **Quick And Healthy Crockpot Meals**, this dish ticks all the boxes. Prepare to enjoy a **Light Healthy Crockpot Meals** option that is easy to make and packed with flavor.
2. Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain rice (or instant rice for quick preparation)
- 1 large lemon, juiced and zested
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For more quick chicken recipes, check out our chicken category for inspiration, or explore our Honey Mustard Chicken for a different flavor profile.
3. Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
3.1. Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and rosemary. Heat a skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil and sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. This adds flavor and locks in juiciness. Remove from heat and set aside.
3.2. Mix the Lemon Herb Mixture
In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and the remaining olive oil. Stir well to create a vibrant marinade and flavor base for the chicken and rice.
3.3. Assemble in the Crockpot
Place the uncooked rice at the bottom of the Crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth and spread the lemon herb mixture over the rice. Nestle the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
3.4. Cook to Perfection
Cover the Crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The rice should be tender, and the chicken thoroughly cooked. To enhance flavor, check periodically, and add more broth if needed.
3.5. Final Touches and Serving
Once cooked, gently fluff the rice with a fork and serve the tender chicken sliced over the lemon-infused rice. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish. For extra flavor, you can add a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving.
4. Storage Tips
Allow the leftover **Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice** to cool completely before storing. Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until warmed through or reheat in a saucepan on the stovetop. This dish also freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prep and batch cooking.
For more tips on storing and reheating **Healthy Crock Recipes**, visit our slow cooker recipes section.
5. Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful chicken and rice dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete, nutritious meal. For added flavor, consider topping with extra herbs or a dollop of Greek yogurt. This recipe pairs wonderfully with [nutrient-rich options](https://recipeswonders.com/cheesy-ground-beef-rice-casserole/), and can be complemented with other **Light Healthy Crockpot Meals** for variety.
If you want to make it even more special, try pairing with a refreshing beverage using the Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker to cool down after your delicious meal.
6. Make It a Complete Meal with Additional Recipes
Enjoy your **Healthy Delicious Crockpot Recipes** experience with complementary dishes like Smothered Chicken and Rice or explore hearty stews like Crockpot Beef Stew. These recipes can be prepared in your trusty *Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker* for a full week of wholesome dinners.
Discover more ideas for simple, healthy meals at our slow cooker recipes page and elevate your culinary repertoire.
7. FAQs About Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Can I use instant rice for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute instant rice for regular rice, reducing cooking time. Add it during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking for best results.
- How do I keep the chicken moist and tender? Searing the chicken beforehand and cooking on low heat helps retain moisture. Avoid overcooking to maintain juiciness.
- Can I add vegetables like broccoli or carrots? Absolutely! Add chopped vegetables during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a more nutritious meal.
- Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Yes, it stores well for up to 3 months in airtight containers. Thaw overnight and reheat as needed.
- What are some other quick and healthy crockpot meals to try? Explore [cheesy ground beef and rice casserole](https://recipeswonders.com/cheesy-ground-beef-rice-casserole/) or [chicken taco soup with cream cheese](https://recipeswonders.com/chicken-taco-soup-with-cream-cheese/).
8. Final Tips for Success
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor. Don’t forget to season your chicken well, and feel free to personalize with your favorite herbs. Ensuring the rice is evenly spread at the bottom of your **Crockpot** guarantees a no-stir, fuss-free cooking process. To streamline prep, consider using tools like the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master to chop ingredients efficiently.
This **Easy Chicken And Veggie Crockpot Recipe** is perfect for busy households looking for a nutritious and effortless meal with maximum flavor.
9. Conclusion
In summary, the **Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice** offers a delightful combination of fresh citrus, aromatic herbs, and tender chicken, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. This approach epitomizes **Healthy Crock Recipes** and **Light Healthy Crockpot Meals** that are easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this **Whole Food Crock Pot Meals** recipe hits the mark. For more delicious crockpot ideas, don’t forget to browse our extensive collection of **Crockpot** recipes and enhance your culinary repertoire with practical kitchen tools like the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set for seamless cooking experiences. Enjoy your flavorful journey with this simple, healthy, and irresistibly tasty **Chicken Recipe Slow Cooker**.
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Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Discover a delicious and healthy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken breasts are cooked with fragrant herbs, zesty lemon, and fluffy rice, making it a flavorful and wholesome crockpot meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain rice (or instant rice for quick preparation)
- 1 large lemon, juiced and zested
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and rosemary. Sear in a skillet with olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden, then set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and remaining olive oil to make the lemon herb marinade.
- Place uncooked rice in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour chicken broth over the rice and evenly distribute the lemon herb mixture on top. Nestle the seared chicken breasts on the rice.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Gently fluff the rice with a fork, then serve the chicken sliced over the lemon-infused rice. Garnish with chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil or fresh lemon juice if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped vegetables like broccoli or carrots during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- This dish freezes well and is great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of the dish)
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
