Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Update : January 3, 2026

Plate of slow cooker lemon herb chicken served with rice and herbs

Why Make This Recipe

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a delicious and convenient meal. It combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a burst of fresh lemon flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. This dish is not only satisfying but also healthy and easy to prepare.

How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
2 cups rice
4 cups chicken broth
1 lemon (juiced and zested)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

In a slow cooker, place the chicken breasts and season them with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
Add the rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the slow cooker.
Drizzle olive oil over the mixture.
Stir to combine all ingredients.
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
Once done, shred the chicken in the pot and mix through the rice.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

This dish is perfect served warm on its own or with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad. You can also add some extra lemon slices on top for added flavor and a beautiful presentation. It makes a great family dinner or a dish to impress guests at a gathering.

How to Store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave a portion until warm. If you’d like to save it for longer, you can freeze the chicken and rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Use bone-in chicken: For even more flavor, consider using bone-in chicken breasts.
Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to suit your taste.
Add vegetables: You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition.

Variation

You can switch up the herbs by using fresh herbs like rosemary or basil instead of dried. Additionally, you can try adding a splash of white wine for a different flavor profile. For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and perhaps add a bit more liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

2. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to increase the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Then, simply transfer everything to the slow cooker in the morning and cook during the day.