Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

There’s something deeply comforting about a meal that slowly cooks away while you go about your day, filling your home with rich, savory aromas and promising a satisfying dinner at the end. Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is exactly that kind of recipe. It’s warm, nourishing, and familiar, yet brightened with fresh lemon zest and fragrant herbs that keep it from feeling heavy or dull.

This dish brings together tender chicken breasts, fluffy long-grain rice, and a carefully balanced blend of thyme, rosemary, garlic, and lemon. Everything cooks gently in one slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping prep work to a minimum. It’s the kind of meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent, perfect for busy weeknights, relaxed weekends, or anytime you want a reliable, crowd-pleasing dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

The inspiration behind this recipe is classic home cooking: simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and comforting results. Lemon and herbs have long been a favorite pairing for chicken, but combining them with rice in the slow cooker turns this into a complete, all-in-one meal. The rice absorbs the savory chicken broth and citrusy notes, while the chicken stays juicy and flavorful thanks to the low, slow cooking process.

Whether you’re new to slow cooking or already rely on it as a kitchen staple, this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice stands out for its balance, ease, and consistent results. It’s beginner-friendly, family-approved, and versatile enough to fit into meal-prep plans or special dinners alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Complete one-pot meal with protein, grains, and vegetables
• Beginner-friendly with simple, clearly defined steps
• Bright, fresh flavor from lemon zest and juice
• Tender, juicy chicken cooked gently in the slow cooker
• Minimal prep time with hands-off cooking
• Ideal for meal prep and leftovers

Ingredients Breakdown

Below is the exact ingredient list, with precise measurements and no modifications, organized for clarity and accuracy.

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Rice & Liquid

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 4 cups chicken broth

Seasonings & Flavorings

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables & Garnish

• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, depending on portion size.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To prepare this recipe efficiently and safely, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Slow cooker with lid
• Large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Mixing spoon

Having everything ready before you begin ensures a smooth cooking process from start to finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure the recipe turns out exactly as intended, with evenly cooked rice and tender chicken.

1. Heat the oil
   Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion
   Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
3. Add the garlic
   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic.
4. Transfer to slow cooker
   Transfer the cooked onion and garlic mixture to the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
5. Add the chicken
   Place the chicken breasts on top of the onion and garlic mixture in a single layer if possible.
6. Season the chicken
   Sprinkle the dried thyme, dried rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken breasts.
7. Add the rice
   Add the uncooked long-grain white rice around the chicken in the slow cooker.
8. Pour in the broth
   Pour the chicken broth over the rice and chicken, ensuring the rice is fully submerged in the liquid.
9. Add lemon juice
   Drizzle the fresh lemon juice evenly over everything in the slow cooker.
10. Cook
    Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for 3–4 hours or on high for 1.5–2 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
11. Remove the chicken
    Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and set them aside.
12. Add peas
    Stir the frozen peas into the rice and broth mixture, allowing them to warm through.
13. Shred or slice the chicken
    Shred or slice the chicken breasts as desired.
14. Return chicken to slow cooker
    Return the chicken to the slow cooker and gently mix everything together.
15. Adjust seasoning
    Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
16. Finish and serve
    Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving. Serve hot, making sure each portion includes both chicken and rice.

Tips & Variations

Dietary Adaptations

• Naturally dairy-free
• Suitable for nut-free diets
• Easily adaptable for gluten-free needs if broth is certified gluten-free

Texture Adjustments

• Stir gently after adding the chicken back to avoid breaking up the rice.
• Let the dish rest with the lid off for a few minutes if excess moisture remains.

Vegetable Options

The recipe uses frozen peas, but carrots or green beans can be substituted if desired, using the same quantity.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish offers a well-rounded flavor profile that feels both comforting and fresh. The chicken is savory and juicy, infused with herbal notes from thyme and rosemary. Lemon zest adds brightness without overpowering the dish, while lemon juice brings a subtle tang that lifts the richness of the broth.

The rice is soft, fluffy, and deeply flavorful, having absorbed the chicken broth, aromatics, and herbs. Frozen peas add gentle sweetness and a pop of color, while fresh parsley at the end provides a clean, herbal finish.

This meal pairs well with simple side dishes such as a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Overview

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a balanced meal that provides protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables in one dish.

• Approximate calories per serving: 450
• High in protein from chicken breasts
• Moderate carbohydrates from rice
• Low in added fats

Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on portion size and ingredient brands.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

This recipe is well-suited for meal prep and advance planning.

• Chop onion and garlic ahead of time and refrigerate.
• Measure out dried herbs and seasonings in advance.
• Cook fully, then portion into containers for easy reheating.

Reheat gently to maintain texture and moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust cooking time as needed to prevent overcooking.

Why must the rice be submerged?

Keeping the rice fully submerged ensures even cooking and prevents undercooked or crunchy grains.

Can I skip sautéing the onion and garlic?

Sautéing enhances flavor, but the recipe will still cook if this step is skipped.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should be fully cooked through and easy to shred or slice.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, as long as your slow cooker can accommodate the increased volume safely.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	4 hours
Rest Time	10 minutes
Total Time	4 hours 20 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish hot in shallow bowls to showcase both the chicken and rice. Sprinkle fresh parsley just before serving for color and freshness. For family-style meals, serve directly from the slow cooker to keep everything warm.

Recipe Variations Using the Same Ingredients

1. Shredded Chicken Style
   Fully shred the chicken for a more uniform, comforting texture.
2. Herb-Forward Version
   Emphasize the rosemary and thyme aroma by stirring gently before serving.
3. Extra Lemon Finish
   Add lemon zest at the very end for a brighter citrus note.
4. Rice-Forward Bowl
   Slice the chicken thinly and layer over the rice for a plated presentation.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken Breasts

Chicken breasts are lean, versatile, and ideal for slow cooking when paired with enough liquid. Choose evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.

Long-Grain White Rice

Long-grain white rice cooks evenly and stays fluffy, making it ideal for slow cooker recipes that require extended cooking times.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Spread rice evenly around the chicken for uniform cooking.
• Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking to maintain temperature.
• Let the dish rest briefly before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing

Freezing is possible, though rice texture may soften slightly. Cool completely before freezing and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a small splash of broth if needed.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Approximate Value
Calories	450
Protein	High
Carbohydrates	Moderate
Fat	Low
Fiber	Moderate

Dietary Notes: Dairy-free, nut-free, beginner-friendly.

Expanded Conclusion

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. It’s dependable, flavorful, and comforting without being heavy. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it delivers a complete, satisfying meal that feels thoughtfully prepared.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or just craving a warm, nourishing dinner, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try, make it part of your routine, and come back whenever you need a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.

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