Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice is a delightful dish that is both easy to prepare and full of flavor. Cooking chicken in a slow cooker helps to keep it tender and juicy, while the lemon and herbs add a refreshing taste. This dish is perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a warm and tasty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about making this delicious recipe, from the ingredients and basic steps to tips for serving and storing it. Get ready to enjoy a wonderful meal that your whole family will love!
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
There are many reasons to love Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice. Here are just a few:
- Easy to Make: You can throw all the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs creates a bright and tasty dish that will please your taste buds.
- Tender Chicken: Slow cooking makes the chicken tender and easy to shred, perfect for a comforting meal.
- Versatile: You can serve it with different sides or use it in various dishes.
- Great for Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for making in advance, ensuring you have delicious meals ready to go.
With all of these reasons, there’s no doubt you will love this recipe!
HOW TO MAKE Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
Making Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice is a simple process. Just follow the steps below, and you will have a delicious meal ready in no time!
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make this recipe, you will need:
- A slow cooker
- A measuring cup
- A measuring spoon
- A cutting board
- A knife
- A serving dish
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked fluffy rice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- In a slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, chicken broth, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Remove chicken and shred if desired.
- Serve the lemon herb chicken over fluffy cooked rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
HOW TO SERVE Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
Serving Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice is simple and satisfying. You can serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice, allowing the delicious lemon herb sauce to soak in. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a side salad to balance out the meal.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
If you have leftovers, you can store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice in the refrigerator. Just place it in an airtight container, and it will be good for up to three days. If you want to freeze it, allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
To enhance your meal, consider these serving suggestions:
- Pair the chicken with a fresh green salad for a light and healthy option.
- Serve it with roasted or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
- Offer some crusty bread on the side to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a creamy touch.
VARIATIONS
Feel free to switch things up with these variations:
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers into the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños.
- Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with turkey breasts or even pork tenderloin for a different flavor.
- Herb Options: You can use fresh herbs like rosemary or basil instead of dried for a more intense flavor.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, the cooking time may be longer.
- Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can make it in a stovetop pot or a pressure cooker. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Is it okay to use other types of rice?
- Absolutely! You can use any rice of your choice, such as brown rice or jasmine rice.
- Can I add more lemon?
- Yes, if you love lemon flavor, feel free to add more juice and zest to the dish.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
If you want to save time, you can prepare some ingredients in advance. Here are a few tips:
- Prep the Chicken: You can season the chicken with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs the night before. Just cover and refrigerate until you are ready to cook.
- Make Rice Ahead: Cook the rice in advance. It can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Just reheat before serving.
- Cut Vegetables: If you’re adding vegetables, chop them ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
By following these tips, you will be ready to enjoy a tasty meal without the rush on busy days. Enjoy your cooking!
Print
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice
A delightful dish made with tender chicken, refreshing lemon, and herbs, served over fluffy rice.
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked fluffy rice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, chicken broth, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Remove chicken and shred if desired.
- Serve the lemon herb chicken over fluffy cooked rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: slow cooker, chicken, lemon, herbs, easy recipe, meal prep, family meals
