Introduction
Indulge in the comforting embrace of Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, a dish that transforms humble ingredients into a family favorite. As the chicken simmers, it absorbs the vibrant flavors of lemon and fragrant herbs, creating a meal that is both nourishing and sublime. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the hard work, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lemons (zest and juice)
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Total Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker, creating a tender base for your dish.
- Rinse the long-grain white rice under cold water, then layer it over the chicken, allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully as they cook.
- In a separate bowl, combine the low-sodium chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, and then pour this fragrant mixture over the chicken and rice in the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, letting the ingredients infuse and develop their flavors.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas, allowing them to heat through and add a burst of color and sweetness to the dish.
- Once the cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken into delightful bite-sized pieces, then gently stir it back into the rice mixture.
- Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a vibrant garnish and an extra layer of flavor.
Notes or Tips
For a richer flavor, consider browning the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This extra step adds a beautiful golden crust and a deeper taste to your final dish. Feel free to get creative by substituting other vegetables, like carrots or bell peppers, to make it your own!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is perfect for that “set it and forget it” cooking style. The slow cooker gently braises the chicken, allowing it to become incredibly tender while the rice absorbs the flavorful broth. The key is to not lift the lid during cooking; this helps maintain the heat and steam necessary for even cooking and perfect textures!
FAQ
Can I use other types of chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work too, but thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving in the slow cooker.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume, and you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Conclusion
Gather around the table with loved ones and dig into this hearty and satisfying Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. With its delightful combination of tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and perfectly cooked rice, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. Enjoy every last bite, knowing that sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones we cherish the most!