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Savory Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Dish

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- Chicken Types and Specifications Use 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender. - Rice Selection Guidance Choose 1 cup of long-grain white rice. It cooks well and absorbs flavors. - Seasoning and Aromatics Details You need: - 1 onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 lemon (zested and juiced) - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - Salt and pepper to taste - Additional Vegetables or Herbs Add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more color and taste. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can boost flavor. - Alternative Chicken Cuts You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. They are leaner but may dry out if overcooked. {{ingredient_image_1}} How to season chicken Start by taking the chicken thighs. I like to season them with salt and pepper. Then, squeeze the lemon juice over the meat. Add half of the lemon zest for extra flavor. Let the chicken sit for about 15 minutes. This helps the flavors soak in well. Sautéing aromatics correctly Grab a skillet and heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they smell good and turn soft. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds a strong base for your dish. Layering ingredients in the slow cooker Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic into the slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onion mix. Next, layer the long-grain rice over the chicken. Make sure the rice is spread evenly. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring the rice is covered. Then, add the remaining lemon zest, oregano, thyme, and rosemary for a burst of flavor. Cooking time and temperature settings Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for about 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking makes the chicken tender and the rice absorb most of the broth. Incorporating frozen peas and adjusting seasonings About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, stir in the frozen peas. This adds a lovely pop of color and sweetness. Cover and continue to cook until the peas are warmed through. Before serving, fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh touch. To make this dish shine, marinate the chicken well. Mix salt, pepper, lemon juice, and half of the lemon zest. Let it sit for 15 minutes. This wait allows the flavors to soak in, making your chicken more tasty. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft. This step adds a rich base flavor. Throw these into the slow cooker first. Then add the chicken, rice, and broth. This layering helps all the flavors blend nicely. One common mistake is overcooking the rice and chicken. Cooking for too long makes the chicken dry. The rice can turn mushy if you cook it too long too. Aim for 4 to 6 hours on low heat. Check the chicken for doneness before serving. It should be tender and juicy. This dish pairs well with many sides. A fresh salad adds crunch and brightness. Roasted vegetables can also complement the flavors. If you want something heartier, consider garlic bread. These sides enhance the meal and make it more complete. Enjoy your lovely slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice! Pro Tips Marinate for More Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate in lemon juice, salt, and spices for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Use Fresh Herbs: For a brighter taste, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried ones. Add them at the end of cooking for maximum flavor. Adjust Liquid Amount: Depending on your rice type, you may need to adjust the amount of broth. Check the rice package for the appropriate liquid ratio. Fluff the Rice: After cooking, use a fork to fluff the rice gently. This prevents it from becoming mushy and helps to mix in the chicken and peas evenly. {{image_2}} You can easily change the chicken and rice in this dish. If you want, use chicken breasts instead of thighs. They will still taste great. You can also try brown rice if you like a nuttier flavor. Just remember, brown rice takes longer to cook. Herb combinations can also change your dish. Instead of oregano, thyme, and rosemary, try basil or dill. These herbs bring new flavors that brighten the meal. You can even mix fresh and dried herbs for extra taste. If you don’t have a slow cooker, no worries! You can use an Instant Pot. Simply sauté the onion and garlic in the pot first. Then, add the chicken, rice, broth, and herbs. Seal the lid and cook on high for about 10-12 minutes. The chicken will stay tender, and the rice will cook perfectly. You can also make this on the stovetop. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic. Add the chicken, rice, and broth, then bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and cover. Cook for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is soft and the chicken is fully cooked. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free chicken broth and rice. This keeps all the flavors while being safe for those with gluten issues. For a low-carb version, swap out rice for cauliflower rice. It cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors well. Just stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This way, you keep the dish light and healthy without losing taste. To keep your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice fresh, place it in an airtight container. Make sure the dish cools to room temperature first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. For freezing, use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Portion the dish into smaller servings. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing. Label it with the date. You can freeze the chicken and rice for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot. The prepared dish is safe to eat for about three days in the fridge. After that, the chicken may start to lose its quality and flavor. If frozen, it stays safe for about three months. However, the best taste comes within the first month. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. Yes, you can use brown rice. It has a nutty flavor and chewy texture. However, cooking times will change. Brown rice takes longer to cook, about 6 to 8 hours in the slow cooker. Make sure to add extra liquid, too. Use about 2.5 cups of chicken broth for every cup of brown rice. This helps it cook properly. To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can also cut the chicken open. The meat should be white and juices should run clear. If it's pink, it needs more time. Let it cook longer and check again. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Season the chicken and sauté the onion and garlic. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready, layer the chicken and rice in the slow cooker. You can also reheat leftovers. Just warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove. This blog post covers everything for making a tasty slow-cooked chicken and rice dish. You learned about key ingredients, preparation steps, and methods to boost flavor. I shared tips to avoid common mistakes and suggestions for serving. There are variations for different diets and cooking methods, along with storage advice. When you try this recipe, have fun mixing flavors and experimenting. Cooking should be enjoyable and rewarding. By following these steps, you'll create a dish to remember. Enjoy your cooking journey!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Ready to delight your taste buds? My Savory Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice dish is a game-changer. Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, all simmered to perfection with fluffy rice. This recipe is simple, perfect for busy days, and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps that will make this meal a family favorite!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of lemon and herbs infuses the chicken and rice with a refreshing taste.
  3. Hands-Free Cooking: Using a slow cooker allows you to set it and forget it, giving you more time to relax.
  4. One-Pot Meal: This dish is a complete meal in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

– Chicken Types and Specifications

Use 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender.

– Rice Selection Guidance

Choose 1 cup of long-grain white rice. It cooks well and absorbs flavors.

– Seasoning and Aromatics Details

You need:

– 1 onion, finely chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 lemon (zested and juiced)

– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

– Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor

– Additional Vegetables or Herbs

Add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more color and taste. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can boost flavor.

– Alternative Chicken Cuts

You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. They are leaner but may dry out if overcooked.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

How to season chicken

Start by taking the chicken thighs. I like to season them with salt and pepper. Then, squeeze the lemon juice over the meat. Add half of the lemon zest for extra flavor. Let the chicken sit for about 15 minutes. This helps the flavors soak in well.

Sautéing aromatics correctly

Grab a skillet and heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they smell good and turn soft. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds a strong base for your dish.

Slow Cooking Method

Layering ingredients in the slow cooker

Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic into the slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onion mix. Next, layer the long-grain rice over the chicken. Make sure the rice is spread evenly. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring the rice is covered. Then, add the remaining lemon zest, oregano, thyme, and rosemary for a burst of flavor.

Cooking time and temperature settings

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for about 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking makes the chicken tender and the rice absorb most of the broth.

Final Steps Before Serving

Incorporating frozen peas and adjusting seasonings

About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, stir in the frozen peas. This adds a lovely pop of color and sweetness. Cover and continue to cook until the peas are warmed through. Before serving, fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh touch.

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Best Flavor

To make this dish shine, marinate the chicken well. Mix salt, pepper, lemon juice, and half of the lemon zest. Let it sit for 15 minutes. This wait allows the flavors to soak in, making your chicken more tasty.

Sauté the onion and garlic until soft. This step adds a rich base flavor. Throw these into the slow cooker first. Then add the chicken, rice, and broth. This layering helps all the flavors blend nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the rice and chicken. Cooking for too long makes the chicken dry. The rice can turn mushy if you cook it too long too. Aim for 4 to 6 hours on low heat. Check the chicken for doneness before serving. It should be tender and juicy.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with many sides. A fresh salad adds crunch and brightness. Roasted vegetables can also complement the flavors. If you want something heartier, consider garlic bread. These sides enhance the meal and make it more complete. Enjoy your lovely slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice!

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for More Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate in lemon juice, salt, and spices for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
  2. Use Fresh Herbs: For a brighter taste, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried ones. Add them at the end of cooking for maximum flavor.
  3. Adjust Liquid Amount: Depending on your rice type, you may need to adjust the amount of broth. Check the rice package for the appropriate liquid ratio.
  4. Fluff the Rice: After cooking, use a fork to fluff the rice gently. This prevents it from becoming mushy and helps to mix in the chicken and peas evenly.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily change the chicken and rice in this dish. If you want, use chicken breasts instead of thighs. They will still taste great. You can also try brown rice if you like a nuttier flavor. Just remember, brown rice takes longer to cook.

Herb combinations can also change your dish. Instead of oregano, thyme, and rosemary, try basil or dill. These herbs bring new flavors that brighten the meal. You can even mix fresh and dried herbs for extra taste.

Cooking Method Alternatives

If you don’t have a slow cooker, no worries! You can use an Instant Pot. Simply sauté the onion and garlic in the pot first. Then, add the chicken, rice, broth, and herbs. Seal the lid and cook on high for about 10-12 minutes. The chicken will stay tender, and the rice will cook perfectly.

You can also make this on the stovetop. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic. Add the chicken, rice, and broth, then bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and cover. Cook for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is soft and the chicken is fully cooked.

Dietary Adjustments

If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free chicken broth and rice. This keeps all the flavors while being safe for those with gluten issues.

For a low-carb version, swap out rice for cauliflower rice. It cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors well. Just stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This way, you keep the dish light and healthy without losing taste.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice fresh, place it in an airtight container. Make sure the dish cools to room temperature first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Freezing Tips

For freezing, use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Portion the dish into smaller servings. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing. Label it with the date. You can freeze the chicken and rice for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

Shelf Life of Prepared Dish

The prepared dish is safe to eat for about three days in the fridge. After that, the chicken may start to lose its quality and flavor. If frozen, it stays safe for about three months. However, the best taste comes within the first month. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice. It has a nutty flavor and chewy texture. However, cooking times will change. Brown rice takes longer to cook, about 6 to 8 hours in the slow cooker. Make sure to add extra liquid, too. Use about 2.5 cups of chicken broth for every cup of brown rice. This helps it cook properly.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can also cut the chicken open. The meat should be white and juices should run clear. If it’s pink, it needs more time. Let it cook longer and check again.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Season the chicken and sauté the onion and garlic. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, layer the chicken and rice in the slow cooker. You can also reheat leftovers. Just warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove.

This blog post covers everything for making a tasty slow-cooked chicken and rice dish. You learned about key ingredients, preparation steps, and methods to boost flavor. I shared tips to avoid common mistakes and suggestions for serving. There are variations for different diets and cooking methods, along with storage advice.

When you try this recipe, have fun mixing flavors and experimenting. Cooking should be enjoyable and rewarding. By following these steps, you’ll create a dish to remember. Enjoy your cooking journe

- Chicken Types and Specifications Use 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender. - Rice Selection Guidance Choose 1 cup of long-grain white rice. It cooks well and absorbs flavors. - Seasoning and Aromatics Details You need: - 1 onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 lemon (zested and juiced) - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - Salt and pepper to taste - Additional Vegetables or Herbs Add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more color and taste. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can boost flavor. - Alternative Chicken Cuts You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. They are leaner but may dry out if overcooked. {{ingredient_image_1}} How to season chicken Start by taking the chicken thighs. I like to season them with salt and pepper. Then, squeeze the lemon juice over the meat. Add half of the lemon zest for extra flavor. Let the chicken sit for about 15 minutes. This helps the flavors soak in well. Sautéing aromatics correctly Grab a skillet and heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they smell good and turn soft. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds a strong base for your dish. Layering ingredients in the slow cooker Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic into the slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onion mix. Next, layer the long-grain rice over the chicken. Make sure the rice is spread evenly. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring the rice is covered. Then, add the remaining lemon zest, oregano, thyme, and rosemary for a burst of flavor. Cooking time and temperature settings Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for about 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking makes the chicken tender and the rice absorb most of the broth. Incorporating frozen peas and adjusting seasonings About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, stir in the frozen peas. This adds a lovely pop of color and sweetness. Cover and continue to cook until the peas are warmed through. Before serving, fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh touch. To make this dish shine, marinate the chicken well. Mix salt, pepper, lemon juice, and half of the lemon zest. Let it sit for 15 minutes. This wait allows the flavors to soak in, making your chicken more tasty. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft. This step adds a rich base flavor. Throw these into the slow cooker first. Then add the chicken, rice, and broth. This layering helps all the flavors blend nicely. One common mistake is overcooking the rice and chicken. Cooking for too long makes the chicken dry. The rice can turn mushy if you cook it too long too. Aim for 4 to 6 hours on low heat. Check the chicken for doneness before serving. It should be tender and juicy. This dish pairs well with many sides. A fresh salad adds crunch and brightness. Roasted vegetables can also complement the flavors. If you want something heartier, consider garlic bread. These sides enhance the meal and make it more complete. Enjoy your lovely slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice! Pro Tips Marinate for More Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate in lemon juice, salt, and spices for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Use Fresh Herbs: For a brighter taste, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried ones. Add them at the end of cooking for maximum flavor. Adjust Liquid Amount: Depending on your rice type, you may need to adjust the amount of broth. Check the rice package for the appropriate liquid ratio. Fluff the Rice: After cooking, use a fork to fluff the rice gently. This prevents it from becoming mushy and helps to mix in the chicken and peas evenly. {{image_2}} You can easily change the chicken and rice in this dish. If you want, use chicken breasts instead of thighs. They will still taste great. You can also try brown rice if you like a nuttier flavor. Just remember, brown rice takes longer to cook. Herb combinations can also change your dish. Instead of oregano, thyme, and rosemary, try basil or dill. These herbs bring new flavors that brighten the meal. You can even mix fresh and dried herbs for extra taste. If you don’t have a slow cooker, no worries! You can use an Instant Pot. Simply sauté the onion and garlic in the pot first. Then, add the chicken, rice, broth, and herbs. Seal the lid and cook on high for about 10-12 minutes. The chicken will stay tender, and the rice will cook perfectly. You can also make this on the stovetop. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic. Add the chicken, rice, and broth, then bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and cover. Cook for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is soft and the chicken is fully cooked. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free chicken broth and rice. This keeps all the flavors while being safe for those with gluten issues. For a low-carb version, swap out rice for cauliflower rice. It cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors well. Just stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This way, you keep the dish light and healthy without losing taste. To keep your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice fresh, place it in an airtight container. Make sure the dish cools to room temperature first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. For freezing, use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Portion the dish into smaller servings. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing. Label it with the date. You can freeze the chicken and rice for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot. The prepared dish is safe to eat for about three days in the fridge. After that, the chicken may start to lose its quality and flavor. If frozen, it stays safe for about three months. However, the best taste comes within the first month. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. Yes, you can use brown rice. It has a nutty flavor and chewy texture. However, cooking times will change. Brown rice takes longer to cook, about 6 to 8 hours in the slow cooker. Make sure to add extra liquid, too. Use about 2.5 cups of chicken broth for every cup of brown rice. This helps it cook properly. To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can also cut the chicken open. The meat should be white and juices should run clear. If it's pink, it needs more time. Let it cook longer and check again. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Season the chicken and sauté the onion and garlic. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready, layer the chicken and rice in the slow cooker. You can also reheat leftovers. Just warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove. This blog post covers everything for making a tasty slow-cooked chicken and rice dish. You learned about key ingredients, preparation steps, and methods to boost flavor. I shared tips to avoid common mistakes and suggestions for serving. There are variations for different diets and cooking methods, along with storage advice. When you try this recipe, have fun mixing flavors and experimenting. Cooking should be enjoyable and rewarding. By following these steps, you'll create a dish to remember. Enjoy your cooking journey!

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

A flavorful and easy slow cooker dish featuring chicken thighs, rice, and a zesty lemon herb blend.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 piece onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 piece lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and half of the lemon zest. Let sit for about 15 minutes for the flavors to absorb.
  • Saute Aromatics: In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic into the slow cooker. Add the seasoned chicken thighs on top.
  • Add Rice and Broth: Layer the long-grain rice over the chicken. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring the rice is submerged. Add the remaining lemon zest, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
  • Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for about 4 to 6 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, and the rice has absorbed most of the broth.
  • Incorporate Peas: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Cover and continue to cook until the peas are warmed through.
  • Serve: Once ready, fluff the rice with a fork, adjust seasoning as necessary, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, let the chicken marinate in the lemon juice and zest before cooking.
Keyword chicken, herbs, lemon, rice, slow cooker

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