Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken: The Ultimate Herb Chicken and Rice Delight 🍋🍗✨

1. Introduction

Are you craving a flavorful yet simple dish that highlights the zesty brightness of lemon combined with aromatic herbs? Look no further than this lemon herb chicken recipe – a perfect choice for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike. This slow cooker lemon chicken dish infuses tender chicken with a fresh citrus and herb marinade, creating a delightful herb chicken and rice meal that everyone will love. Best of all, it can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your day while your cooker does all the work.

2. Ingredients Needed for the Perfect Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1 tbsp lemon zest
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup long-grain white rice
Fresh parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken

Preparing the Chicken and Herb Marinade

In a small bowel, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade. Place chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor infusion.

Cooking the Chicken in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the marinated chicken breasts to the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker. Pour chicken broth around the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Preparing the Herb Chicken and Rice

About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir in the rice and ensure the liquid covers the rice fully. Cover and cook on high for another 30 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Herb Chicken and Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm gently on the stovetop. For longer storage, you can freeze the leftovers for up to a month—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. Serving Suggestions for This Delicious Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe

Serve your slow cooker lemon chicken over steamed vegetables like green beans or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with roasted potatoes or a side of crusty bread for a more filling meal. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle additional herbs or a squeeze of fresh lemon over the finished dish. If you’re in the mood for more easy and flavorful recipes, check out this cheesy crack burgers or this cheesy ranch sausage potato bake.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work beautifully with this recipe. They tend to be moister and more forgiving during slow cooking. Adjust the cooking time to 6-8 hours on low for thighs.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure that the chicken broth used is labeled gluten-free. This makes the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The active prep time is approximately 10-15 minutes, with marinating taking at least 30 minutes. The total cooking time is about 4-6 hours in the slow cooker, making it an incredibly convenient recipe.

Are there substitutions for lemon?

If lemon is unavailable, lime juice makes a good substitute, providing a similar citrus flavor with a slight variation.

7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

Ninja SLUSHi with RapidChill Technology — Perfect for making refreshing drinks to complement your meal or for preparing ingredients like herbs and vegetables efficiently.
Fullstar Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer — Make quick work of preparing garlic or herbs for your marinade, saving time and effort in the kitchen.
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker — Essential for cooking this herb and lemon chicken effortlessly and perfectly every time.
CAROTE Nonstick Pots and Pans Set — Ideal for preparing side dishes or reheating leftovers, ensuring your meals stay delicious and easy to clean up.

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9. Conclusion

This lemon herb chicken recipe is a flavorful, healthy, and incredibly easy dish to prepare using your slow cooker. Its bright citrus notes combined with fragrant herbs make it a standout meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this slow cooker lemon chicken will become a regular in your recipe rotation. Try it today and enjoy the tender, juicy chicken paired with aromatic rice—the perfect herb chicken and rice combination!

Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken