Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe

When life gets busy, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where the Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice comes in—a simple, delicious, and comforting meal that practically cooks itself. Tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and fluffy rice combine for a dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for a cozy solo meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Why Choose Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?

This slow cooker dish is everything you love about comfort food but without the hassle. Here’s why this recipe is a winner:

Minimal Prep Time: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can set this meal up in no time and let the slow cooker do the rest.
Hearty & Flavorful: The lemon and herbs give the chicken a refreshing twist, while the rice soaks up all the delicious flavors as it cooks.
Healthy Option: Using lean chicken and whole grain rice, this dish provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a balanced meal that’s also good for you.
Easy Cleanup: Since everything cooks in one pot, cleanup is a breeze. You won’t need to wash multiple pans or utensils after dinner.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry. Use different vegetables or try swapping the rice for quinoa for a twist.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dish. Don’t worry about complex ingredients—this recipe uses simple pantry staples and fresh herbs.

Essential Ingredients:

Chicken: Choose bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Bone-in chicken adds moisture and flavor, while the skinless option keeps things lean.
Rice: Long-grain white rice or brown rice works best. Brown rice takes a bit longer to cook, but it adds a nice nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest infuse the dish with bright, citrusy flavor.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary bring out the savory flavors in the chicken and rice. You can use dried herbs if fresh isn’t available.
Vegetables: Carrots, onions, and mushrooms are great additions, but feel free to include whatever vegetables you prefer. Bell peppers, peas, or celery can work too.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth gives the rice a rich base while keeping the dish healthy and flavorful.

How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Ready to make the magic happen? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, flavorful meal waiting for you.

Step 1: Combine the Rice and Vegetables

Start by placing your rice and vegetables in the slow cooker. Carrots and onions should be chopped into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Mushrooms should be torn or sliced to create nice bites of flavor throughout the dish.

Tip: Season the rice and vegetables with salt and pepper before mixing them together. This simple step ensures that every bite is well-seasoned.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Rub your chicken with olive oil, fresh thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add a pinch of salt and pepper and massage the herbs into the chicken to coat it evenly. The lemon juice adds a refreshing tang, while the herbs bring savory depth to the flavor.

Step 3: Optional Searing Step

While searing the chicken is optional, it really enhances the flavor. Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until it’s golden brown. This caramelizes the chicken and creates a beautiful crust that locks in the juices.

Why sear the chicken? Searing the chicken adds extra flavor and texture that the slow cooker can’t provide on its own. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Shallots to the Slow Cooker

Once the chicken is seared, transfer it to the slow cooker, placing it on top of the rice and vegetables. Don’t forget the juices from the pan—they’re full of flavor! Toss in the shallots and a sprig of rosemary for added depth and aroma.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The low setting is ideal if you have the time, as it allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and the rice to absorb all the flavors. Check the rice halfway through and give it a quick stir to ensure everything is cooking evenly.

Pro Tip: For a bit of extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or extra broth if you like your rice a bit more moist.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cooking time is up, fluff the rice with a fork and gently stir everything together. The chicken will be tender and juicy, the rice fluffy and fragrant, and the vegetables perfectly cooked. Serve the chicken, rice, and vegetables together for a comforting, one-pot meal.

Tips for Success

Adjust Cooking Time for Brown Rice: If you’re using brown rice, be aware that it takes longer to cook. If the rice isn’t tender after the recommended cooking time, simply add more broth or water and cook for another 30 minutes.
Customize Your Vegetables: If you don’t have carrots or mushrooms, feel free to swap them out for other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or even zucchini.
Add a Dash of Cream: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving. It’ll add richness and depth to the dish.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to more special family gatherings. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, you can customize it based on what you have in your pantry or what you’re craving.

How to Customize Your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

One of the best parts of cooking with a slow cooker is how flexible it is. This recipe can be easily adapted to suit different tastes, dietary needs, and ingredient availability. Here are some ideas on how to make it your own:

1. Vegetable Variations

If you’re looking to add a bit more color or nutrition to the dish, consider swapping out or adding more vegetables. Here are a few ideas:

Bell Peppers: Sweet bell peppers will add a pop of color and sweetness to the dish.
Peas: Fresh or frozen peas work wonderfully and bring a burst of green to the meal.
Spinach or Kale: These leafy greens are a great addition if you want to up the nutritional value of the dish.
Zucchini or Squash: These vegetables are mild in flavor and will blend seamlessly into the recipe.

2. Swap the Protein

Although this recipe calls for chicken, there are plenty of other protein options that will work just as well. Here are a few alternatives:

Turkey: Turkey breasts or thighs can be used instead of chicken for a leaner option.
Tofu: For a vegetarian or vegan version, swap out the chicken for tofu. Firm tofu works best, and you can give it a light sear in the skillet to add texture.
Pork: Bone-in pork chops or pork tenderloin could be used as an alternative protein. The flavors of the pork pair nicely with the lemon and herbs.

3. Rice Alternatives

While the recipe uses rice as a base, you can easily substitute other grains based on your preferences or dietary needs:

Quinoa: Quinoa is a great gluten-free option that cooks quickly and adds a slightly nutty flavor.
Couscous: Couscous works well in the slow cooker, but it requires less time to cook, so it’s best to add it in the last 30 minutes.
Barley: This whole grain will add a chewy texture and earthy flavor to the dish. It works well in slow cooker meals, but like brown rice, it needs a bit more time to cook.

4. Add a Creamy Twist

If you love creamy dishes, adding a touch of cream can elevate this dish. Stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk toward the end of cooking to add richness to the broth. You can also add a few spoonfuls of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving to give it a tangy twist.

5. Herb Alternatives

If thyme and rosemary aren’t your favorite herbs, don’t hesitate to experiment with others. Here are some options:

Basil: Fresh basil can give the dish a more Mediterranean flavor. It pairs especially well with the lemon.
Oregano: If you’re after an herb with a bolder flavor, oregano can add an earthy, slightly peppery taste.
Parsley: Fresh parsley can be sprinkled on top before serving for a fresh, grassy note.

Ideal Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a variety of side dishes to enhance the experience. Here are a few ideas for what to serve alongside:

1. Simple Green Salad

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the chicken and rice. Try mixing together greens like arugula, spinach, and mixed lettuce for a refreshing side.

2. Garlic Bread

For a little indulgence, garlic bread is always a great pairing. The crunchy, buttery bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce or juices from the chicken and rice.

3. Roasted Vegetables

If you want to add more vegetables to your meal, roast some seasonal vegetables like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and depth of the veggies.

4. Steamed Green Beans

For a light, fresh side dish, steamed green beans add color and texture without overwhelming the meal.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Meal Prep

If you love to meal prep for the week, Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a fantastic choice. Here’s why:

Easy to Portion: After cooking, divide the dish into individual servings for quick grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Stores Well: The leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it an ideal dish for preparing ahead of time.
Freezes Well: If you want to make a larger batch and save some for later, this dish freezes beautifully. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing it in airtight containers.

FAQs On Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

How to make lemon and herb chicken and rice?

To make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, follow these steps:

Combine Ingredients: Add rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, carrots, and mushrooms to your slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper and mix.
Season and Sear Chicken: Rub the chicken with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Optionally, sear the chicken in a skillet for extra flavor before adding it to the slow cooker.
Cook: Add the chicken to the slow cooker on top of the rice and vegetables. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, serve the chicken and rice together, and enjoy!

Can you put raw rice in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can put raw rice in a slow cooker. The slow cooker will cook the rice as it simmers with the liquid (chicken broth or water) and other ingredients. Be sure to add enough liquid for the rice to absorb as it cooks.

Can you cook raw chicken and rice at the same time?

Yes, you can cook raw chicken and rice at the same time in a slow cooker. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to cook through while the rice absorbs the flavors from the chicken and broth. Simply layer the rice and vegetables at the bottom, place the raw chicken on top, and let the slow cooker do the rest.

Can you put rice in a slow cooker with chicken?

Absolutely! Rice can be cooked in a slow cooker along with chicken. It’s a convenient one-pot meal. Make sure to add enough liquid to properly cook the rice and prevent it from burning. You can use chicken broth for extra flavor, and the rice will soak up all the delicious juices from the chicken as it cooks.

Why did my rice turn to mush in the crockpot?

Rice can turn to mush in the crockpot if there is too much liquid or if it is cooked for too long. To avoid this, be sure to follow the recipe’s liquid-to-rice ratio, and don’t open the slow cooker lid too frequently as this can alter cooking time. Additionally, if using brown rice, keep in mind that it requires more time and liquid than white rice. Make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly.

Recipe Card: Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Ingredients:

2 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 tsp dried parsley (or fresh)
1 cup carrots, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced or torn
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tbsp fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 shallots, halved
Kosher salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Slow Cooker: In the bowl of your slow cooker, combine the rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, carrots, and mushrooms. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together.
Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Sear the Chicken (Optional): Heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Cook the Shallots: In the same skillet, add the halved shallots and cook for 1-2 minutes to soften slightly. Transfer them to the slow cooker, along with any drippings from the pan.
Slow Cook: Place the seared chicken on top of the rice and vegetables in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. If using brown rice, add an extra 1/2 cup of broth and increase cooking time by 30 minutes.
Serve: Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and serve the chicken, rice, and vegetables together. Enjoy your one-pot meal!

Notes:

If you prefer a creamier dish, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu or other plant-based protein.
Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. Be sure to adjust the cooking time if using brown rice.
Feel free to substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as bell peppers or peas.
You can sear the chicken for extra flavor, but it’s not necessary. If you skip this step, just add the raw chicken to the slow cooker.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 400 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 40g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 450mg
Cholesterol: 75mg

(Note: Nutritional facts are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients used.)

Recipe Details:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Comfort Food / American