Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Cooking can sometimes feel like a chore, especially after a long day. That’s where the beauty of slow cooking comes into play. The Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it the perfect meal for busy individuals and families alike. This dish offers a harmonious balance of tangy lemon, fragrant herbs, and tender chicken served over a bed of fluffy rice.

Ingredients

To make this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

• For the Rice:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups water
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

First, season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is optional but enhances the flavor.

2. Set Up the Slow Cooker

Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the slow cooker. In a separate bowl, mix the lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.

3. Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. The chicken will become incredibly tender as it cooks.

4. Prepare the Rice

About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the rice. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.

5. Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is done cooking, carefully shred it with two forks right in the slow cooker. Stir the mixture to combine all the flavors. Serve the lemon herb chicken over a bed of fluffy rice, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a meal that requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, as you can set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker do all the hard work. Not only will you enjoy a delicious meal, but you’ll also fill your home with the irresistible aroma of herbs and citrus. Add it to your weekly meal rotation, and savor every bite!