This Crockpot Chicken and Rice is a cozy, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy days. With tender chicken and fluffy rice, it’s packed with flavor and comfort in each bite!
Honestly, using a crockpot makes life so much easier! I love setting it up in the morning and coming home to a delicious dinner. Plus, leftovers are always a win! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using bone-in, skin-on thighs for added flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use skinless chicken breasts. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as they can dry out more quickly.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice richness to the dish. If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to substitute with vegetable oil, canola oil, or even butter if you prefer that flavor for searing.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect here because it cooks up fluffy. Brown rice is a healthy alternative, but it requires longer cooking time, so adjust broth and cook time accordingly.
Lemon: Fresh lemon slices brighten the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but use less—about 1-2 tablespoons should suffice.
How Do I Get Perfectly Sear Chicken Thighs?
Searing the chicken first is key to building flavor. Here’s how to do it well:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat, making sure it’s hot before adding the olive oil.
- Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken thighs skin-side down, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded.
- Sear for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and do the same on the other side.
- Don’t rush this step! Proper searing locks in juices and adds depth to the dish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken And Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
For The Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and anywhere from 4 to 6 hours to cook in the slow cooker on low heat, or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. It’s perfect for a busy day—just set it up and let it cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs. Sprinkle salt and pepper over them, and add the garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Make sure to rub the spices all over the chicken so it’s packed with flavor!
2. Searing the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds extra flavor and crispy skin. When done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Preparing the Slow Cooker:
In your slow cooker, pour in the uncooked long-grain white rice and the chicken broth. Give it a gentle stir to mix them together. This will be the tasty base for your chicken!
4. Adding the Chicken and Lemon:
Now it’s time to add the star of the show! Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Then, take the lemon slices and arrange them on top of the chicken. This way, the chicken absorbs the lovely lemon flavor as it cooks.
5. Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook. Choose low heat for 4 to 6 hours or high heat for 2 to 3 hours. It’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
6. Serving:
Once it’s done cooking, garnish your dish with some fresh thyme for a nice touch. Serve it up hot, and enjoy this delicious lemon herb chicken and rice with family and friends!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just reduce the cooking time slightly; they will typically cook through in about 3-4 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high in the slow cooker.
What Can I Substitute for White Rice?
If you want to substitute white rice, consider using brown rice or quinoa. Just remember, brown rice will need extra cooking time (add about 30 minutes), and quinoa typically cooks faster, so adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas. Just toss them in the slow cooker with the rice and chicken broth before adding the chicken. This will add flavor and nutrition to the dish!
