Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Introduction

When you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and bright, Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice delivers every time. It’s a no-fuss, hands-off dinner that lets the slow cooker do the heavy lifting, marrying tender chicken with zesty lemon and an aromatic blend of fresh herbs. This one-pot wonder is perfect for meal prepping, feeding a hungry crowd, or just making busy weeknights hassle-free.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

The appeal of this recipe comes from its harmonious flavor profile. The slow-cooked chicken absorbs the citrusy freshness of lemon, while thyme, rosemary, and parsley infuse each grain of rice with savory depth. The result? Incredibly juicy chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a deliciously herbed broth that’s as comforting as it is uplifting. Plus, everything cooks together in a single pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing taste.

Secrets to Flavorful, Tender Chicken

For the juiciest chicken, choose bone-in chicken thighs or breasts—these stay moist throughout the slow cooking process. Freshly-squeezed lemon brings brightness, while a bouquet of aromatic herbs keeps things layered and interesting. Before adding them to your slow cooker, use the Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3 for safe and easy prepping of your chicken and herbs.

A quick sear of the chicken in a skillet before slow-cooking is optional, but adds extra depth to the flavor. If you’d like to try this step, grab a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch for an easy, golden sear that locks in moisture.

Simple Steps for Perfect Rice and Herb Blends

Long-grain white rice is the best base—it stays fluffy and light, absorbing the herbed lemon broth without becoming mushy. For even chopping of onions, celery, and carrots (if using), a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper saves prep time and ensures even cooking. Stir the rice gently into the slow cooker, making sure it’s submerged for the most consistent results.

Serving & Storing for Maximum Freshness

To serve, spoon generous portions of chicken and rice onto plates, garnishing with extra chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon. For easy workday lunches, portion leftovers into Bentgo Salad Container – 54 oz Bowl, Khaki Green for convenient grab-and-go meals. This dish also freezes beautifully—simply store cooled portions in airtight containers.

Nutritional Information & Servings

This recipe serves about 6 people generously. Each serving, packed with lean protein and a moderate portion of starch, comes in at roughly 400–450 calories (depending on cut and portion of chicken). With minimal added fat and plenty of fresh herbs, it’s a nutritious choice for families and meal preppers alike.

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice (Recap)

Let your slow cooker transform simple ingredients into a vibrant, comforting meal the whole family loves. With little prep time, easy cleanup, and cost-effective ingredients, this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Instructions

1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides with 1 teaspoon salt and black pepper. (Optional: Sear chicken in a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch in olive oil for 2–3 minutes per side to deepen flavor.)
2. Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the bottom of your slow cooker. For fast, uniform cutting, the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper is perfect.
3. Pour in the rinsed rice and stir. Nestle chicken pieces on top, then add lemon zest and juice, thyme, rosemary, and remaining salt. Pour in chicken broth to cover everything.
4. Cook on low for 5–6 hours, or on high for 2½–3 hours, until both chicken and rice are tender. (Check the thickest part of the chicken for doneness—internal temperature should reach 165°F; use a ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking for best results.)
5. Stir in fresh parsley, then fluff the rice gently with a fork. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and extra lemon wedges. Divide leftovers into Bentgo Salad Containers or airtight food storage for future meals.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 5–6 hours (low) or 2½–3 hours (high)

Total Time: 6 hours (maximum, on low)