Go Back
Close-up of shredded chicken and rice in a slow cooker, topped with melted cheese and herbs.

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is an easy comforting dinner packed with tender chicken, bright lemon flavor, fluffy rice, and simple herbs. Everything cooks together in one slow cooker for a family-friendly meal perfect for busy days.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 340
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Rice
  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup long grain white rice rinsed
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 cup baby spinach
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • slow cooker
  • Forks

Method
 

  1. Lightly grease the slow cooker with olive oil.
  2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker.
  3. Place the chicken thighs on top.
  4. Sprinkle with oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  7. Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks.
  8. Stir the rinsed rice into the slow cooker liquid.
  9. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and cover again.
  10. Cook on high for 25 to 30 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  11. Stir in the lemon zest, spinach, and parsley.
  12. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  13. Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe serving.

Notes

For the best texture use long grain white rice and avoid instant rice which can become too soft in the slow cooker.