Introduction
If you’re looking for a warm and comforting meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. Bursting with flavors, this dish combines tender chicken and fluffy rice with zesty lemon and fresh herbs, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Total Time: 4-6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a slow cooker, place the chicken breasts at the bottom.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then layer it over the chicken and broth in the slow cooker.
- Drizzle olive oil over the rice and add the chopped spinach on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and stir everything gently to combine before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix, such as bell peppers or carrots.
- For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
- This dish can be easily doubled for larger gatherings; just ensure your slow cooker is large enough.
Cooking Techniques
Using a slow cooker allows for the flavors to meld beautifully while requiring minimal hands-on time. The gentle cooking process helps keep the chicken juicy and the rice perfectly cooked, making it a hassle-free meal.
FAQ
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid.
- What can I substitute for chicken broth? Vegetable broth or water can be used, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with soothing flavors and aromas. Easy to prepare and delightful to eat, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your household. Enjoy the comfort it brings!