Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Crockpot

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful, and effortless meal, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Crockpot recipe. Juicy chicken breasts simmered in a buttery, garlicky lemon sauce over tender, fluffy rice make for a dish that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something wholesome but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The crockpot does all the heavy lifting, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully and infuse every bite with bright, savory goodness.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something magical about the combination of lemon and garlic, and when paired with butter and herbs, it becomes downright irresistible. This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Crockpot recipe stands out because it balances tangy citrus with rich butter and fragrant herbs, creating layers of flavor that everyone will love. The chicken stays moist and tender, while the rice absorbs all the delicious juices, making it the perfect one-pot meal.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and requires minimal prep, making it ideal for those new to cooking or anyone short on time. Plus, it’s a great way to deliver comfort food without the need for complicated techniques or ingredients. If you love dishes like garlic butter pasta, you’ll adore how this crockpot meal brings those familiar flavors into a complete, hearty dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

How To Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Crockpot

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by rinsing the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy. Mince the garlic cloves finely for an even distribution of flavor. Zest and juice your lemon, making sure to avoid the bitter white pith when zesting.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)

For added depth of flavor and a nice golden color, lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in a hot skillet with a tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is optional but will make your dish even more delicious.

Step 3: Assemble in the Crockpot

Place the rinsed rice in the bottom of your crockpot and spread it out evenly. Pour the chicken broth over the rice, ensuring it is fully submerged. Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, dried thyme, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine.

Nestle the chicken breasts on top of the rice and broth mixture.

Step 4: Add Butter and Lemon Juice

Cut the unsalted butter into small pieces and scatter them evenly over the chicken breasts. Pour the fresh lemon juice over everything — this will add bright acidity that perfectly complements the buttery richness.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C), and the rice should be tender and fluffy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once cooking is complete, gently fluff the rice around the chicken with a fork, being careful not to tear the meat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting, zesty goodness of this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Crockpot meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the rice rinse: Not rinsing the rice can lead to sticky, clumpy rice rather than fluffy grains.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long in the crockpot can result in dry, stringy meat. Follow the recommended cooking times carefully.
• Using too much lemon juice: Excess lemon can overpower the dish and make it bitter. Stick to one lemon’s worth of juice and zest.
• Neglecting to stir before serving: Fluffing the rice and mixing gently helps distribute flavors and prevents the rice from sticking together.
• Forgetting to season properly: Salt and pepper are key to balancing flavors. Taste and adjust as needed before serving.

Dietary Options

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using plain chicken broth without additives.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt to control sodium levels.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine alternative.
• Whole Grain: Swap white rice for brown rice, but increase the cooking time to ensure the rice cooks thoroughly.

Seasonal Variations

• Spring: Add fresh asparagus tips or peas to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking for a pop of green and sweetness.
• Summer: Incorporate diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers to bring vibrant summer flavors.
• Fall: Include chopped mushrooms or butternut squash cubes for earthy, cozy notes.
• Winter: Stir in some baby spinach or kale near the end of cooking for extra nutrients and color.

Storage & Make-Ahead

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Crockpot meal is fantastic for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep the rice moist.

You can also assemble the crockpot ingredients in advance (except the butter) and refrigerate overnight. Add the butter right before cooking for the best flavor. This makes busy day cooking even easier!

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and tend to stay even juicier during slow cooking. If you decide to use chicken thighs, bone-in or boneless both work, but adjust the cooking time slightly if using bone-in.

Is it necessary to brown the chicken before adding it to the crockpot?

No, browning is optional but recommended. It adds a delicious caramelized flavor and better texture. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still get a tasty meal.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes! You can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot by using the sauté function to brown the chicken, then cooking on high pressure for about 10 minutes with a natural release. For perfect rice every time, try this Instant Pot Basmati Rice method for inspiration.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the crockpot?

Make sure to rinse the rice well before adding it to the crockpot, and give the rice and broth mixture a gentle stir before layering the chicken on top. Using enough liquid and cooking on low heat helps prevent sticking as well.

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Crockpot recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare, packed with fresh flavors, and perfect for any occasion. From the tangy lemon punch to the rich, buttery garlic sauce, every bite is a delicious reminder that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try and savor the mouthwatering combination of chicken, rice, lemon, and garlic all cooked to perfection in one easy crockpot!

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