This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a warm and tasty dish that’s super easy to make. With juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and fluffy rice, it’s a comforting meal everyone will love.
I enjoy tossing everything in the slow cooker and letting it do the work. It fills the house with delicious smells while I relax! Plus, less cleanup means more time for napping. 😴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, but you can use boneless thighs or even chicken breasts as a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time as they cook faster.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect here, but if you’re looking for a healthier choice, brown rice could work. Just note that it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a unique flavor, but feel free to swap it for regular paprika or even cayenne for a bit of heat. Don’t hesitate to customize your spice blend to your taste!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice makes a huge difference in flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh is always best for that zing!
Herbs: Fresh thyme and parsley give your dish a bright taste, but dried herbs can be good too. Just use one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
What’s Involved in Browning the Chicken?
Browning the chicken adds a deep flavor and a lovely texture to your dish. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; the oil should shimmer.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. This creates a flavorful crust.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest before placing it in the slow cooker.
Taking the time to brown the chicken can really enhance the overall taste of your meal. Enjoy the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen!
How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Rice Mixture:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 4-5 hours in the slow cooker. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe, making it perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure to rub the spices all over the chicken so they get good flavor!
2. Brown the Chicken:
Next, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet and sear them until they turn golden brown on both sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes for each side. Once they’re nice and browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Rice Mixture:
Now, it’s time to move to the slow cooker! Pour in the long-grain white rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and thyme. Stir everything together well so that the rice is nicely coated in the mixture.
4. Add Chicken to Slow Cooker:
Carefully place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture in the slow cooker, making sure they sit right on top.
5. Cook:
Pop the lid on your slow cooker and let it cook on low for about 4-5 hours. This allows the chicken to become tender and the rice to soak up all the yummy flavors!
6. Serve:
When the cooking time is up, fluff the rice with a fork and serve the chicken on a platter. Don’t forget to garnish with the fresh parsley and lemon slices for a lovely touch. Enjoy your delicious lemon herb chicken and rice!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless chicken thighs will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time to about 3-4 hours on low. Make sure to check for doneness before serving; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water can work in a pinch! For extra flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the taste.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers to the rice mixture. Just cut them into small pieces so they cook evenly. Add them at the same time as the rice for a complete, one-pot meal.
