Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together bright flavors and simple cooking. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It’s tender, warm, and perfect for busy days.
Why You Will Love This Lemon Herb Chicken
This dish is truly fantastic for a few reasons. First, it’s easy to make, perfect for beginners. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, so you can focus on other things. The flavors of lemon and herbs make each bite fresh and vibrant. Plus, it’s a cozy meal the whole family will enjoy.
How to Make Lemon Herb Chicken
Making this dish is simple and requires minimal effort. You just layer your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. The result is a tender chicken served on a bed of fluffy rice. It’s perfect for any day of the week!
What You Need
Here’s what you will need for this lovely meal:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 lemons (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup rice
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Step-by-Step
Follow these easy steps to make your Lemon Herb Chicken:
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Add chicken broth and rice to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
- Fluff rice with a fork before serving and garnish with fresh herbs.
How to Serve Lemon Herb Chicken
This dish is great on its own, but you can make it even better. Consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. A simple green salad adds a nice crunch. You can also drizzle some extra lemon juice on top for added brightness.
How to Store Lemon Herb Chicken
To keep your leftovers fresh, allow them to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or in a pot on the stove until warmed through.
Recipe Tips
- Marinate ahead: Let the chicken marinate in the lemon mixture for a few hours for even more flavor.
- Cooking time: If using frozen chicken, increase cooking time by an hour on low.
- Texture: Ensure the rice is submerged in the broth for the best texture.
- Add veggies: Consider adding peas or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Swap proteins: This recipe works well with chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Variations & Swaps
You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste:
- Herb changes: Try using fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a different flavor.
- Citrus twist: Substitute lime or orange juice for a unique twist on the flavor.
- Vegan option: Replace chicken with jackfruit or chickpeas for a plant-based meal.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook.
Can I freeze Lemon Herb Chicken?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
What can I substitute for chicken breasts?
You can use chicken thighs, turkey breasts, or even meat-free options like firm tofu or tempeh.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a little broth if it seems dry.
What mistakes should I avoid?
Don’t skip the liquid! It’s crucial for cooking the chicken and rice properly.
Lemon Herb Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts
- 2 pieces lemons (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup rice
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Add chicken broth and rice to the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
- Fluff rice with a fork before serving and garnish with fresh herbs.
