Lemon herb chicken rice has become my go-to lifesaver on those wild weeknights when dinner seems like an unsolvable mystery. You know those evenings—the ones where everyone’s hungry, the clock is ticking, and you just want something warm, fresh, and easy. Honestly, this dish checks all the boxes for Lazy Dinners Crockpot fans like me.
First, the aroma alone makes it feel like summer inside my kitchen, even if it’s pouring rain outside. The bright zing of lemon and the cozy hug of herbs turn plain rice and chicken into something special. Also, it’s so simple! I’ve even thrown everything in the slow cooker while wrangling runaway socks and refereeing sibling squabbles. Dinner magic, right?
Finally, what I love most is that lemon herb chicken rice feels like a treat without fuss. So, if you’re craving something cheerful for dinner—especially on those Dinners For Hot Days —this recipe is ready to rescue your evening.
Personal Anecdote
So, let me tell you about the first time I tried lemon herb chicken rice on a Tuesday night that was already off the rails. I’d forgotten to thaw anything, and my youngest declared she was “starving to actual death”—her words, not mine! I tossed the ingredients into my slow cooker, crossed my fingers, and hoped for a miracle.
Then, as the kitchen filled with the scent of garlic and rosemary, I started to relax. There’s just something about the way lemon herb chicken rice perfumes the house that makes chaos seem a little less…chaotic. I even had time to peek at a new recipe for the Best Easy Mississippi Chicken Recipe For A Cozy Family Dinner while the slow cooker did its thing.
Why This Recipe is Special
First, this dish is a true Dinner Ideas When Sick hero. The lemon and herbs are comforting, and it’s gentle enough for sensitive tummies. Also, it’s perfect for Crock Pot Meals For Two or a whole hungry crew, just by tweaking the amounts. Plus, I can’t forget the way my kids gobble it up—definitely one of those Kid Approved Crockpot Meals I keep on repeat.
Finally, if you like easy family dinners, you’ll want to check out my favorite Best Easy Chicken Burrito Bowl For A Healthy Family Dinner too. Honestly, lemon herb chicken rice is one of those Easy Dinner Recipes For Family Crockpot meals that make me feel like a kitchen wizard, even when I’m winging it.
Ingredients breakdown
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken thighs | 4 |
| Long-grain rice | 1 cup |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Lemon, juiced and zested | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp |
| Dried rosemary | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
| Fresh parsley, for garnish |
Utensils and substitutions
First, you’ll need a trusty slow cooker for this lemon herb chicken rice. If you don’t have one, an oven-safe dish covered with foil works in a pinch—just bake at a low temperature and check on the rice for tenderness. A wooden spoon is handy for stirring the rice and herbs together, while a fork is perfect for fluffing at the end.
Sometimes, I swap out long-grain rice for brown rice, though you might need a bit more liquid and a tad more time. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder works fine. Also, dried herbs can be replaced with fresh if you have them—just use a little more. This meal is a lifesaver when you need or , especially during busy weeks. My kids love it, so it’s a regular among our too.
For more inspiration, check out my Best Easy Chicken Piccata Meatballs Family Approved Dinner Recipe and the Best Easy Mediterranean Chicken Piccata For A Healthy Dinner Tonight. Finally, if you want to make sure your family’s meals are as nutritious as possible, I love the tips over at nutrition.gov—they make healthy eating less intimidating, even on those when you just need something quick and comforting.
Step-by-step method for a lemon herb chicken rice Dinner
Step 1
First, add the long-grain rice, chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. I always try to squeeze every last bit of lemon juice for that bright flavor. This step is perfect for Lazy Dinners Crockpot nights when you want everything in one pot.
Step 2
Then, place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs right on top of the rice mixture. Next, make sure they’re nestled in, but don’t push them down too much. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little extra thyme here for a stronger aroma. This recipe is also a lifesaver for Dinner Ideas When Sick , since it’s comforting and gentle on the stomach.
Step 3
After that, cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork, serve the chicken over it, and garnish with fresh parsley. I always save a little parsley for the kids—they love the pop of green!
Tips and tricks to make this Dinner recipe shine
For even more flavor, try adding extra lemon zest just before serving. If you’re preparing Crock Pot Meals For Two , you can easily halve the recipe. Sometimes, I make this lemon herb chicken rice ahead so Dinner is stress-free on busy nights. Also, if you love easy comfort food, check out the Best Cozy Merry Me Chicken Pasta For A Hearty Family Dinner and the Easy Dump Go Marry Me Chicken Best 5 Star Dinner Recipe. Both are family favorites. Finally, letting the rice sit for a few minutes before fluffing makes it extra tasty and less sticky. Sometimes, we even sneak in a handful of peas for extra color and nutrients!
What to serve with this Dinner recipe
First, let’s talk sides for your lemon herb chicken rice. Since this dish already brings tons of flavor, you might want something simple. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette works well. Next, roasted carrots or steamed broccoli are lovely for a pop of color and nutrition. If you’re after a cozy meal, try a soft dinner roll to soak up all that herby sauce. Also, for a fun twist, serve it alongside a Mediterranean-style veggie platter. Looking for more kid-friendly ideas? Check out our Best Creamy Ranch Chicken Dinner Easy Kid Friendly Family Approved for more family favorites. Or, if you want something quick and fresh, our Best Easy Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza Quick Healthy Lunch Idea is perfect for summer nights.
How to store and reheat
Next, let’s keep things simple. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to reheat, just pop a portion in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through so everything warms evenly. For a larger batch, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry. Also, this dish freezes well—just cool it completely before freezing in single-serve portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as above. It’s a great option if you’re hunting for Dinner Ideas When Sick or prepping for busy weeknights.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, you can swap in brown rice. However, keep in mind it will need a bit more liquid and a longer cooking time.
What herbs work best in lemon herb chicken rice?
Parsley, thyme, and dill are classic choices. Fresh or dried both work, so use whatever you have on hand.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! Lemon herb chicken rice keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it perfect for Lazy Dinners Crockpot or quick lunches.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Of course! Just skip any butter, and use olive oil instead. The flavors will still shine through.
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Don’t overcook it. Also, covering the pot while resting helps lock in moisture.
Print
lemon herb chicken rice – Full recipes
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes (high)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Clean Eating
Description
A flavorful slow cooker dish combining tender chicken thighs with seasoned rice infused with lemon and herbs.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 lemon, juiced and zested
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. In the slow cooker, combine the rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Arrange the chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork, then serve the chicken over the rice. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Use bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor.
Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Finally, there you have it—lemon herb chicken rice for those days when you want something bright, comforting, and fuss-free. Around here, we love how it checks all the boxes for Crock Pot Meals For Two or a big family table. If you want more easy dinner inspiration, peek at our Creamy Ranch Chicken Dinner or get creative with our Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza. Next time you’re browsing meal ideas, remember to follow us on Pinterest—you’ll find all our favorite meal type boards, from Dinner to Snack, ready to inspire your next cozy kitchen adventure. We hope this recipe brings a little sunshine to your table!