Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Name: Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs; 1 cup rice; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the bright, zesty flavor of this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe. Tender chicken thighs are simmered with fragrant herbs and a splash of lemon, served over a fluffy bed of rice that soaks up all the delicious juices. This easy one-pot meal is not only flavorful but also a perfect weeknight dinner option that your family will love, making it a go-to favorite for busy cooks.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-11T17:51:55.360Z

This recipe is a family favorite that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table.

A Flavorful Blend of Ingredients

The combination of chicken thighs and aromatic herbs creates a wonderful depth of flavor in this dish. Chicken thighs are ideal for slow cooking as they remain tender and juicy, absorbing the herbal notes and lemony zing as they cook. The use of olive oil lends a rich, comforting element, helping to keep the chicken moist and adding a slight nuttiness to the overall profile.

Rice acts as a canvas for this delightful mélange of flavors, soaking up the savory chicken broth and lemon juice. This not only enhances the rice's taste but also ensures that every bite is a burst of deliciousness. As you serve the chicken atop this fluffy bed of rice, you’ll find that each component harmonizes beautifully, resulting in a well-rounded meal.

Effortless Cooking Convenience

One of the key features of this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe is its ease of preparation. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, allowing busy cooks to enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply season the chicken, toss in the remaining ingredients, and let the slow cooker work its magic. It’s a true set-it-and-forget-it meal!

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, with minimal active cooking time required. You can start cooking it in the morning and come home to a deliciously fragrant home, with the added joy of sharing a warm meal together. It's a wonderful way to ensure your family enjoys a nutritious dinner without the stress of complex preparation.

Customizable for Your Palate

Another fantastic aspect of this recipe is its adaptability. While it's delicious as written, you can easily personalize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Consider adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach for an added nutritional boost. These vegetables will cook alongside the chicken, absorbing the rich flavors and making your meal even heartier.

You might also experiment with different herbs or spices, tailoring the recipe to your taste buds. For a touch of heat, a hint of red pepper flakes could provide a perfect kick. Additionally, if you're looking to reduce carbs, you can substitute rice with cauliflower rice or serve the chicken over a fresh green salad.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs
1 cup rice
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all these ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delightful meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary, then place them in the slow cooker.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour the rice, chicken broth, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic over the chicken.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the rice has absorbed the broth.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve the chicken over the rice, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken thighs are not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients. They provide a good source of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and overall body function. Coupled with the health benefits of olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, this recipe supports heart health.

Incorporating herbs like thyme and rosemary not only enhances flavor but also adds medicinal benefits. These herbs are known for their antioxidant properties, potentially aiding in reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system. The addition of lemon provides a good dose of vitamin C, essential for skin health and overall well-being.

Storing and Reheating

After enjoying your meal, you might have some leftovers. This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you can use the microwave or a stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice moist.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for several months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This makes for an effortless meal option on rushed days when you need a tasty diner without the prep hassle.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal even further, consider serving the Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. This adds more color and nutrition to your plate, complimenting the main dish's flavors beautifully.

You might also enjoy pairing it with some crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious juices. A glass of chilled white wine would be a great addition for adults, while sparkling water with a wedge of lemon can refresh the palate. These simple touches will enhance the overall dining experience, making it truly memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out faster, so adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Vegetables like carrots or peas can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.