Introduction
Imagine coming home to the tempting aroma of lemon and herbs wafting through your kitchen after a long day. This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a delightful, fuss-free meal that sings of comfort and freshness. Perfectly tender chicken and fluffy rice come together seamlessly, making it an ideal dinner for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine the rice, chicken broth, water, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the slow cooker and stir gently to combine.
- Once done, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix well.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to add extra veggies like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- For a creamier texture, consider stirring in a splash of cream just before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Techniques
Using a slow cooker allows the chicken to become incredibly tender as it simmers in the flavorful broth, while the rice absorbs the delicious lemon and herb essence, resulting in a comforting one-pot meal.
FAQ
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
- Is it okay to use frozen chicken? Yes, frozen chicken can be used. Just ensure it is thoroughly cooked.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, just substitute the chicken broth with a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is not just easy to make, but it also captures the essence of a home-cooked meal that’s bursting with flavor. With minimal effort, you’ll end up with a dish that’s both heartwarming and satisfying, sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every delectable bite!