Introduction
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with fragrant herbs and zesty lemon. Perfect for busy days, this meal is easy to prepare and fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma. Plus, it’s all cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6-7 hours 10 minutes or 3-4 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
- Add the rice, chicken broth, and water to the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- About 20 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas to the slow cooker and stir.
- Once done, remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the rice mixture.
- Stir everything together and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For a bit of extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the broth.
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with other protein like turkey or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Cooking Techniques
Slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully over time, producing tender and juicy chicken. The rice absorbs all the citrus and herb flavors, making it not only a nourishing meal but also one packed with luscious taste.
FAQ
- Can I use brown rice instead? Yes, but note that brown rice generally requires a longer cooking time.
- What if I don’t have a slow cooker? You can adapt this recipe for the stovetop; simply reduce liquid slightly and simmer on low heat.
- Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free chicken broth.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate. With its bright flavors and hearty ingredients, it makes for a perfect family dinner any night of the week. Dive into this easy dish and enjoy the coziness it brings to your table!