Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice is an easy, flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon infuse the rice with rich, comforting flavors. This hands-off recipe is ideal for meal prep, naturally gluten-free, and packed with nutrients. Let your slow cooker do the work and enjoy a delicious, fuss-free dinner!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice or brown rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lemon juice and zest
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup frozen peas optional for extra color and nutrients
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Transfer the sautéed aromatics to the slow cooker.
- Layer Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Add Chicken: Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the frozen peas (if using) and let sit for 5 minutes. Shred or slice the chicken as desired. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.