This Crockpot Chicken and Rice is a warm, hearty dish that’s simply comforting. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a blend of tasty seasonings, it makes dinner a breeze!
Honestly, I love how I can just set it and forget it! After a busy day, it’s nice to come home to a meal that’s ready to enjoy—no fuss, just good food! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs provide rich flavor and moisture. You can swap them for boneless, skinless thighs for a lighter dish, or use chicken breasts if you prefer.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect here for its fluffy texture. If you want a healthier option, brown rice can be used, but remember it will need extra cooking time and more liquid.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary add great flavor. If you have fresh herbs available, feel free to use them—just double the amount since fresh herbs are milder. You can also substitute with Italian seasoning for a different taste.
Lemon: Fresh lemon provides brightness, but if you only have bottled lemon juice, that works too! Just use about half the amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
How Do I Get the Chicken Skin Perfectly Crispy?
Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker helps develop a nice golden crust. Here are some tips for success:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the olive oil. This will help the skin crisp up nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Keep an eye on the chicken while it’s searing. You want it golden brown, not burnt, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side.
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and then 6 to 7 hours in the slow cooker on low (or 3 to 4 hours on high). Just let the slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy the delicious smells filling your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, lemon zest, and half of the lemon juice. Mix it well so all the spices are combined.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and rub the spice mixture all over them. Make sure each piece is well coated so every bite is packed with flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they are nicely browned. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the Rice Mixture:
In your slow cooker, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Then, pour in the long-grain white rice and chicken broth, along with the remaining lemon juice. Stir everything together to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.
5. Combine and Cook:
Now, place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture in the slow cooker. Cover it with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
6. Finish and Serve:
When the cooking time is up, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Taste it and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the chicken over the fluffy rice and garnish with fresh thyme and lemon slices for a lovely presentation. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! You can use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe. Just reduce the cooking time slightly; boneless thighs will cook faster, so aim for about 5-6 hours on low or 2.5-3 hours on high.
What Can I Substitute for Long-Grain White Rice?
If you don’t have long-grain white rice, you can substitute it with jasmine or basmati rice for a similar texture. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the rice type, so check for doneness closer to the end of the cooking time.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or heat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the slow cooker along with the rice and broth for a more nutritious meal!
