Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Update : February 20, 2026

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken served with rice on a plate

why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a wonderful dish to prepare for busy days. It’s simple to make and fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma. The slow cooker does all the hard work for you, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This recipe is also healthy, packed with fresh ingredients and lean protein, making it a great choice for family dinners.

how to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

In a slow cooker, add the chicken breasts, rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Stir to combine all ingredients.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and serve the chicken over the rice.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

how to serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Serve the Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice hot, right from the slow cooker. It is perfect for a comforting family meal. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh side salad for a complete dinner.

how to store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

To store any leftovers, place the chicken and rice in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

tips to make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice just before serving.
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas or carrots to the slow cooker for added nutrition.
Make sure to cut the chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.

variation

You can substitute the long-grain rice with brown rice, but remember it will need more cooking time and additional liquid. You can also use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.

FAQs

Can I use wild rice instead of long-grain rice?
Yes, but wild rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the cooking time.

Is there a way to make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook it on the stove. Sauté the garlic and chicken first, then add the rice and broth and let it simmer until done.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the slow cooker, which will cook along with the chicken and rice.