Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the zesty flavors of lemon and fragrant herbs. This recipe is perfect for busy individuals and families. Just toss all the ingredients together in the slow cooker, and let it do the magic while you focus on your day. The chicken becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, soaking up the tasty broth and herbs as it cooks. Plus, the addition of rice turns this dish into a complete meal, making it not only delicious but also convenient.
How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups rice
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
Prepare the Marinade: In a slow cooker, start by combining the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried herbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This mixture will infuse the chicken with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Add the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, making sure they are well coated with the marinade. This will ensure that every bite of chicken is bursting with flavor.
Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth. The broth will keep the chicken moist while it cooks and will help cook the rice later.
Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it is cooked through and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Add the Rice: About 30 minutes before serving, add the rice to the slow cooker. Stir it gently to combine with the chicken and broth. This will allow the rice to absorb the delicious flavors of the broth.
Finish Cooking: Continue to cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth. The final dish should be fragrant and inviting.
Serve: Once ready, serve the chicken and rice warm. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
Serve your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken in bowls for a comforting, hearty meal. This dish is great on its own but can also be paired with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete dining experience. Add a slice of lemon on the side for an extra citrus burst, and consider serving with crusty bread to soak up any delicious broth that remains in the bowl.
How to Store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish keeps well and can last for up to three days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Just ensure it is cooled completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for about three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the meal overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
Season Well: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper. Proper seasoning is crucial for enhancing the flavors.
Cut Evenly: If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally to help them cook evenly and quickly.
Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs available, feel free to use them instead of dried. Just remember that fresh herbs can be more potent, so adjust the quantity you use accordingly.
Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your slow cooker, cooking times may vary. Always ensure the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, you can toss in vegetables such as diced carrots, bell peppers, or peas with the rice.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. If you want a creamier dish, you can stir in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking. For more substantial flavors, consider adding soy sauce or honey for a sweet-and-sour profile. You might also substitute the chicken with boneless pork chops or beef, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, they will require longer cooking times. Typically, you should add at least an hour if using frozen chicken.
Can I add other grains instead of rice?
Absolutely! Quinoa, barley, or couscous can be great alternatives to rice. Just ensure you adjust the liquid quantities and cooking times accordingly to suit the grain you choose.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure that any optional sides or garnishes (like bread) are also gluten-free.
With this simple and flavorful Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken recipe, you will create a dish that not only tastes amazing but also simplifies the cooking process. Enjoy this warm, comforting meal any day of the week!
Print
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A simple and flavorful slow cooker dish featuring tender chicken breasts infused with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, served with rice.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups rice
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried herbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are coated with the marinade.
- Pour in the chicken broth to keep the chicken moist.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is easily pulled apart.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the rice and stir to combine.
- Continue cooking until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For added nutrition, toss in vegetables such as diced carrots or peas with the rice. Adjust seasoning and cooking times as necessary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: slow cooker, lemon chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, herb chicken