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+ servings
Slow cooker lemon herb chicken served with rice and herbs

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

A comforting one-pot meal of tender chicken and lemony herbed rice, with peas added for color and texture, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the chicken
  • 4 pieces chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
For the rice
  • 1 cup white rice (long-grain, jasmine, or basmati) Jasmine gives a floral aroma; basmati stays firmer.
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium if preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lemon juiced and zested
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For finishing
  • 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen) If using frozen, no need to thaw.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Lay the breasts in a single layer in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme until combined.
  3. Pour the rice mixture evenly over the chicken. Press gently so the rice is submerged in the liquid and evenly distributed.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
  2. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the peas into the rice and chicken so they heat through but remain slightly firm.
Serving
  1. When cooking is complete, remove the chicken briefly, fluff the rice with a fork, then nestle the chicken back on top or slice and serve alongside.
  2. Spoon rice and peas under or beside each chicken breast.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1g

Notes

For extra flavor, sear the chicken quickly in a hot skillet before adding to the slow cooker. Avoid opening the lid during cooking to maintain temperature. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

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