Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice
Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice is one of those meals that turns an ordinary day into something comforting and bright. There is something about the aroma of lemon and butter mingling with tender chicken that makes the kitchen feel alive again. Whether you are coming home from work, juggling kids’ schedules, or simply craving a low-effort dinner, this slow cooker recipe feels like a warm invitation to slow down.
Imagine lifting the lid after hours of gentle cooking. The chicken is soft enough to pull apart with a fork, the rice is perfectly tender, and that citrusy steam carries a hint of sunshine no matter the season. This is not just another Crockpot meal. It is the kind of recipe that fits every chapter of your year, from cozy Fall Dinners Crockpot nights to easy Summer Crockpot meals when you want something filling but light.
Table of Contents
Why This Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice Is Perfect for Lazy Dinners Crockpot Nights
There are days when even the simplest cooking feels like a chore. That is where this recipe shines. It is ideal for Lazy Dinners Crockpot evenings when you just want a hearty meal without hovering over the stove. You can toss everything into the pot in minutes, forget about it, and come back later to find dinner ready and waiting.
This dish also doubles beautifully as a Crock Pot Chicken and Rice option. It uses basic pantry ingredientschicken thighs, lemon juice, broth, butter, and herbs but tastes like something you would order from a cozy café. The lemon keeps it light while the rice makes it filling enough for the whole family.
Ingredients for the Perfect Meal Prep Crockpot Recipe
Here is everything you will need to prepare this Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice. These amounts create the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup diced leeks
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs trimmed of excess fat
- 3 tablespoons salted butter sliced
Add this at the end:
- 2 cups uncooked Minute Brand rice (do not use regular rice, it will not cook correctly in this recipe)
These simple ingredients work together to create a tender chicken dish surrounded by creamy, lemony rice that tastes like it simmered all day in your kitchen.
Follow these easy steps and your kitchen will smell amazing long before dinner is ready.
- Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, leeks, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir. Add the chicken thighs into the mixture.
- Add the butter on top of the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours without opening the lid during the cooking time.
- When the six hours is up, stir in the Minute Brand rice. Cover and cook for an additional 25 minutes on LOW. Serve and enjoy!
Seasonal Variations: From Fall Dinners Crockpot to Summer Crockpot Meals
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it adapts to different seasons. For Fall Dinners Crockpot inspiration, you can add a touch of sage or rosemary for an earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with the lemon. During spring, brighten it up with fresh peas or asparagus for a lighter feel that echoes Spring Crockpot Meals.
In the warmer months, this dish becomes a refreshing option among Summer Crock Pot Meals. The lemon keeps the flavors crisp, and pairing it with steamed broccoli or a side salad makes it a perfect fit for Crockpot Recipes Summer collections.
It is truly a year-round meal that never feels repetitive, just familiar in the best way possible.
Tips for a Perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Every Time
- Always use Minute rice for the best texture. Regular rice absorbs too much liquid and becomes mushy.
- Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs before cooking to keep the broth clean and flavorful.
- For richer flavor, you can add a splash of cream or a sprinkle of parmesan right before serving.
- If you plan to meal prep, divide leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days.
This recipe reheats beautifully, keeping the rice fluffy and the chicken tender.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken and Rice
u003cstrongu003eCan I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?u003c/strongu003e
Yes, you can. Just reduce the cook time slightly to avoid drying them out.
u003cstrongu003eCan I use regular rice?u003c/strongu003e
u003cbru003eIt is not recommended. Regular rice requires longer cooking and more liquid. Minute rice gives the best texture in a slow cooker.
u003cstrongu003eCan I cook this on high instead of low?u003c/strongu003e
You can cook on high for about three hours, but low and slow gives the chicken a much softer texture.
u003cstrongu003eHow long will it last in the fridge?u003c/strongu003e
Store in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to three months in sealed containers.
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Nutrition Information and Serving Ideas
Each serving provides approximately 313 calories with 27 grams of protein and 24 grams of carbohydrates. It is a balanced dish that works well for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep days. Serve it with steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots for a full meal.
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Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice
- Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice is the perfect comfort meal that’s easy, flavorful, and ideal for any season. With tender chicken, creamy lemon-scented rice, and a hands-off cooking method, this dish transforms even the busiest day into something deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.75 cups chicken broth
- 0.25 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cups diced leeks
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trimmed of excess fat)
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (sliced)
To Add at the End
- 2 cups uncooked Minute Brand rice (do not use regular rice)
Instructions
- Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, leeks, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Place the chicken thighs into the mixture in the slow cooker.
- Top the chicken with the sliced butter.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours. Do not open the lid during this time.
- After 6 hours, stir in the uncooked Minute rice. Cover again and cook on LOW for an additional 25 minutes.
- Fluff the rice, serve warm, and enjoy!
Notes
For extra richness, add a splash of cream or a sprinkle of parmesan just before serving. Trim excess fat from chicken thighs to keep the broth clean and flavorful. This dish is great for meal prep and reheats beautifully for up to four days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 313
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 24
- Protein: 27
Final Thoughts: A Comforting Crockpot Recipe for Every Season
Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice is more than an easy dinner. It is a reminder that home-cooked food does not have to be complicated to feel special. Whether you are creating a quick weekday meal, experimenting with Meal Prep Crockpot Recipes, or trying something new for Summer Crockpot evenings, this dish fits the moment perfectly.
Sometimes the best meals are the ones that ask little of us but give so much in return. Let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy the reward of a lemon-scented kitchen and a table filled with comfort.








