Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

A wholesome, hands-off dinner with zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, juicy chicken, and fluffy rice—all cooked in one pot.

This slow cooker meal brings together bold flavor with simplicity. The chicken stays juicy, the rice absorbs every ounce of flavor, and the herbs plus lemon give it a fresh, savory lift. No need to sauté—just toss it in and go!

???? Ingredients (Serves 4)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – 600g
• Long-grain white rice (uncooked) – 200g
• Chicken broth – 600ml
• Lemon juice – 3 tbsp (45ml)
• Lemon zest – 1 tsp
• Garlic cloves – 3, minced
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp (15g)
• Dried oregano – 1 tsp
• Dried thyme – 1 tsp
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Black pepper – ½ tsp
• Fresh parsley – for garnish
• Optional: Frozen peas – 100g, stirred in during last 10 minutes

????‍???? Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the bottom of your slow cooker insert with olive oil or non-stick spray.

2. Layer Ingredients

Place the uncooked rice in the bottom. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and garlic. Stir gently to combine.

3. Add the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme, then lay it over the rice mixture. Drizzle the olive oil on top.

4. Cook

Cover and cook on low for 3.5 to 4.5 hours, or on high for 2.5 to 3 hours—until the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 74°C / 165°F).

???? Check the rice: All slow cookers cook differently. If rice seems too firm, add a splash of broth or water and cook a bit longer.

5. Add Final Touches

If using, stir in frozen peas during the last 10–15 minutes. When ready, fluff the rice with a fork and squeeze over a bit more fresh lemon juice if desired.

6. Garnish & Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and extra lemon zest for brightness. Serve warm!

????️ Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables
• Serve with a side of Greek yogurt or a light tzatziki
• Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta on top for extra flavor

???? Tips & Variations

• Use bone-in thighs: Adds more flavor—just increase cook time slightly.
• Prefer brown rice? It works too! Cook time will increase by 1–1.5 hours.
• Make it creamy: Stir in 2–3 tbsp of cream cheese or Greek yogurt at the end.
• Add veggies: Try bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for more color and nutrition.

???? Nutrition Info (Per serving – approx.)

???? Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a one-pot dream—fresh, herby, and soul-warming. With only a few minutes of prep and a whole lot of flavor, it’s proof that simple really is best.