Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken Rice Easy One Pot Family Dinner
Introduction
Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the world of effortless cooking with a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Our Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a delicious meal without the fuss. This slow cooker chicken rice lemon herb dinner one pot family meal easy slow cooker dinner healthy chicken rice casserole combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and bright lemon flavors for a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Why is it Perfect for You?
This recipe is a game-changer for several reasons:
◾ It’s a true one-pot meal, minimizing cleanup
◾ The slow cooker does all the work, freeing up your time
◾ It’s packed with flavor yet uses simple, wholesome ingredients
◾ The dish is versatile and can be customized to your taste
◾ It’s perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients List
◾ 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
◾ 2 cups long-grain white rice
◾ 4 cups chicken broth
◾ 2 lemons (juice and zest)
◾ 2 tablespoons olive oil
◾ 2 teaspoons dried oregano
◾ 2 teaspoons dried thyme
◾ 4 cloves garlic, minced
◾ 1 medium onion, diced
◾ Salt and pepper to taste
◾ Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Begin by lightly greasing your slow cooker with a touch of olive oil. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Now, let’s set the stage for our culinary masterpiece!
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Take your chicken breasts and generously season them with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and thyme. Don’t be shy with the herbs – they’re the supporting actors that will make our star ingredient shine!
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. This ensures that the chicken will be perfectly tender and infused with all the flavors we’re about to add.
Step 4: Add the Aromatics
Sprinkle the diced onion and minced garlic over the chicken. These aromatics will create a fragrant base for our dish, filling your home with an irresistible aroma.
Step 5: Rice and Broth
Pour the rice over the chicken and aromatics, spreading it evenly. Then, add the chicken broth. The rice will absorb all the wonderful flavors as it cooks to fluffy perfection.
Step 6: Lemon Zest and Juice
Now for the star of the show – lemon! Zest both lemons over the rice, then squeeze their juice evenly across the top. This citrusy kick will brighten the entire dish.
Step 7: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 4 hours. Resist the temptation to peek – keeping the lid closed ensures even cooking and perfectly tender chicken.
Step 8: Fluff and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, fluff the rice with a fork and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, and voilà! Your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is ready to be devoured!
Nutritional Information
◾ Calories: 380 per serving
◾ Protein: 28g
◾ Carbohydrates: 45g
◾ Fat: 10g
◾ Fiber: 2g
◾ Sugar: 1g
Calories per Person
Each serving of this delightful dish contains approximately 380 calories, making it a balanced option for a satisfying dinner.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this recipe even healthier, consider these alternatives:
◾ Use brown rice instead of white for added fiber
◾ Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast for leaner protein
◾ Add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients
◾ Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce salt content
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice with a side of steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad. For a more indulgent meal, pair it with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
◾ Don’t lift the lid during cooking, as this releases heat and extends cooking time
◾ Avoid overcooking the rice – stick to the recommended cooking time
◾ Don’t skip the lemon zest – it adds a depth of flavor that juice alone can’t provide
◾ Ensure your chicken pieces are similar in size for even cooking
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture, and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is preferable, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before adding to the slow cooker to guarantee even cooking and food safety.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or your favorite meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How can I make the dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the slow cooker for an extra kick. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who like it spicy.
Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, but cooking times may vary. Brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time, while instant rice may cook too quickly and become mushy.
Conclusion
Our Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal – it’s a celebration of flavors and convenience. This slow cooker chicken rice lemon herb dinner one pot family meal easy slow cooker dinner healthy chicken rice casserole brings together the zesty brightness of lemon, the comforting warmth of herbs, and the satisfying combination of tender chicken and fluffy rice. It’s a dish that proves that delicious, home-cooked meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and prepare to impress your family and friends with this effortless culinary delight!
Contact Us
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Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
