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Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

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Craving a bright, comforting meal that’s both flavorful and effortless? Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is your answer! This one-pot dish combines juicy chicken thighs with fluffy, lemon-infused rice, fragrant with garlic and herbs for a wholesome dinner that practically cooks itself.

  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (~1 lb) – Juicy, tender protein that pairs perfectly with the lemony rice. Substitutions: chicken breasts, bone-in thighs, or tofu.
  • 1 cup long-grain rice – Absorbs broth and flavor for a fluffy base. Substitutions: jasmine or basmati rice.
  • 2 cups chicken broth – Adds savory depth. Substitutions: vegetable broth or water with bouillon.
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested – Provides bright, tangy flavor. Substitutions: bottled lemon juice or lime.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses savory depth. Substitutions: garlic powder or paste.
  • 1 tsp dried thyme – Adds earthy, herbaceous flavor.
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary – Adds aromatic, pine-like flavor.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish – Adds color and freshness.

Tip: Use fresh lemon for the brightest flavor, and rinse rice before adding to prevent stickiness.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice Mixture: Rinse 1 cup long-grain rice under cold water until clear. In the slow cooker, combine the rice, 2 cups chicken broth, juice and zest of 1 lemon, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp thyme, 1 tsp rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix. (Tip: Lightly grease the slow cooker to prevent sticking.)
  2. Add the Chicken: Pat 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper. Place them on top of the rice mixture in a single layer, partially submerged in broth.
  3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C) and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
  4. Serve: Remove the chicken and fluff the rice. Serve the chicken over the rice, whole or shredded. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. (If the rice is too wet, cook on high for 10–15 minutes uncovered.)

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor but extend cook time slightly.
  • Try swapping herbs: oregano or herbes de Provence add a fun twist.
  • To make it creamy, stir in a spoonful of butter or cream just before serving.
  • Author: lily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American