Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice – Easy One-Pot Dinner

Cozy up after the holidays with a dish that’s equal parts comfort food and weeknight hero. Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice isn’t just a name—it’s my go-to recipe when winter winds start to bite. If you’re craving something hearty, healthy, and hands-off, this one’s for you.

The first time I made Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice, I was missing the lemony chicken my Nonna used to serve on snowy Sundays. But I needed a slow cooker version—something that didn’t require me to hover over the stove.

So, into the crockpot it went—lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and a generous handful of leeks. The aroma after a few hours? Heaven. The first bite? Even better.

If you’re a fan of our cheesy honey mustard chicken, this one is a must-try. It’s citrusy, savory, and comes together with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy cooks who still want real flavor.

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What Is Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice?

This dish is the definition of “set it and forget it.” Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice brings together tender boneless skinless chicken thighs, infused with fresh lemon juice, savory herbs, and just the right amount of peppery warmth—all slow-cooked to perfection. In the final 25 minutes, you stir in Minute rice, transforming the dish into a fluffy, savory bed that absorbs every drop of that citrusy, buttery goodness.

The best part? Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice is a true one-pot chicken recipe—hearty enough to serve as a complete meal. But if you’re feeling fancy, it pairs beautifully with steamed broccoli or our vibrant lemon herb Mediterranean pasta salad.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Busy Weeknights – No need to babysit the stove.
• Family-Friendly Flavor – Mild yet vibrant, and kid-approved.
• Meal Prep Magic – Freezes like a dream and reheats even better.
• Minimal Clean-Up – Just one pot. That’s it.
• Budget-Friendly – A pantry-friendly dinner with high-protein payoff.

Need more easy chicken dinner ideas? Don’t miss our crowd-pleasing crockpot chicken and dumplings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

🥘 For the Slow Cooker:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1¾ cups chicken broth
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup diced leeks (sub with yellow onion if needed)
• 1 tbsp chopped garlic
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 3 tbsp salted butter

Add Later (After 6 Hours):

• 2 cups uncooked Minute Brand rice

Note: Don’t use regular rice—it won’t cook properly in this recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Slow Cooker

Add chicken broth, lemon juice, leeks, garlic, and all seasonings to your slow cooker. Stir to combine.

2. Add Chicken & Butter

Nestle the chicken thighs into the broth mixture. Place butter on top.

3. Cook on Low

Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours. Avoid lifting the lid to keep heat consistent.

4. Stir in Rice

After 6 hours, stir in the Minute rice evenly. Cover and cook an additional 25 minutes on LOW, or until rice is tender.

5. Serve & Savor

Fluff gently and serve hot. Garnish with parsley, a wedge of lemon, or a sprinkle of parmesan if you like.

Quick Tip: Want more citrus punch? Add 1 tsp of fresh lemon zest just before serving.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results

• Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for the best texture.
• Don’t peek! Lifting the lid slows cooking and lets steam escape.
• Add veggies like broccoli or spinach during the rice stage for extra color and nutrients.
• Taste before serving. You can always add a pinch more salt or pepper at the end.

Variations & Serving Ideas

• Switch it Up: Try chicken breasts (adjust cook time to 5 hours on LOW).
• Creamy Twist: Add ½ cup cream and parmesan with the rice for a richer flavor.
• Serve With:
  • Lemon herb Mediterranean pasta salad
  • Crusty sourdough bread
  • Roasted asparagus or green beans

Looking for bolder flavors? Check out our spicy chicken recipes for dinner.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	313 kcal
Carbohydrates	24g
Protein	27g
Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	136mg
Sodium	518mg
Potassium	426mg
Fiber	1g
Vitamin A	440 IU
Vitamin C	10mg
Calcium	58mg
Iron	4.1mg

Note: Values are approximate. Please adjust for personal dietary needs.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freeze in individual portions—perfect for quick lunches.
• Reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
• Meal Prep Win: Serve with roasted veggies or a green salad for a balanced lunch.

Closing Thoughts & What’s Next

There’s something magical about letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while your kitchen fills with the scent of lemon, herbs, and garlic. Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice isn’t just another dinner—it’s a flavorful pause in the chaos, a dish that brings comfort, ease, and joy to the table.

Tried this version of Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice with your own twist? Share your tips in the comments! And stay tuned—we’re serving up more cozy winter classics real soon.

Meanwhile, why not explore:

• crockpot chicken and dumplings
• spicy chicken recipes for dinner

Social & Pinterest Integration

• Follow Kai Recipe on Facebook for more slow cooker inspiration
• Save this recipe to your Dinner Magic board on Pinterest
• Explore more comforting dinner recipes on our Pinterest profile

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