Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe

Introduction

This Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a comforting, flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, creating a dish that’s both simple and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
4. Step 4: Pour the rice mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
5. Step 5: Place lemon slices on top of the rice for added flavor.
6. Step 6: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
7. Step 7: About 30 minutes before serving, check that the chicken is cooked through; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Step 8: Remove the chicken and fluff the rice with a fork. Adjust seasoning if needed.
9. Step 9: Serve the chicken whole or shredded over the rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
• You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter version.
• Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or peas to the rice mixture for added color and nutrition.
• If you prefer, bake the dish covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes instead of using a slow cooker.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the slow cooker settings accordingly or cook the rice separately before combining.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?

Searing adds extra flavor and color but is optional. You can skip this step to save time, though the dish may be less rich in taste.

Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 85 reviews

A flavorful and easy-to-make Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe slow-cooked to tender perfection. This comforting dish combines juicy chicken breasts with aromatic herbs, fresh lemon juice, and fluffy rice, creating a wholesome meal ideal for any night of the week.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3.5 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 45 minutes (high)
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Rice Mixture

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

Garnish

• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly on both sides to build flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken (optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped. Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker.
3. Combine Rice and Broth: In a bowl, mix the uncooked long-grain white rice, chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried thyme, and dried oregano until well combined.
4. Pour Mixture into Slow Cooker: Carefully pour the rice and broth mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
5. Add Lemon Slices: Place lemon slices on top of the rice for an aromatic citrus flavor infusion during cooking.
6. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
7. Check for Doneness: About 30 minutes before serving, check the internal temperature of the chicken to confirm it has reached 165°F (74°C) to ensure safe consumption.
8. Fluff the Rice: Once cooking is complete, remove the chicken breasts and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Adjust seasonings if necessary.
9. Serve: Either shred the chicken breasts or serve them whole atop the rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

• Searing the chicken is optional but enhances flavor and texture.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright citrus taste.
• Check liquid levels during cooking to prevent rice from drying out.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before eating.
• Adjust herbs to taste based on preference.

Keywords: lemon herb chicken, slow cooker chicken and rice, easy chicken dinner, one pot chicken recipe, lemon chicken rice