Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup – Comforting, Bright & Easy
Introduction
This Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup is a cozy, nourishing dish that blends tender chicken, hearty rice, and a refreshing hint of lemon. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and light, citrusy flavor. Ideal for chilly evenings or busy weeknights, this recipe lets your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup minute rice
6 cups chicken broth
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 bay leaf
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Juice of 2 lemons
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker
Add chicken breasts, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Pour in chicken broth.
Step 2: Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender.
Step 3: Shred Chicken
Remove chicken breasts, shred with two forks, and return to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Add Rice & Lemon
Stir in minute rice, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for an additional 20–25 minutes until rice is tender.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Rice options: Use wild rice or brown rice for a heartier texture (adjust cooking time).
Extra creamy: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
Flavor boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Meal prep: Soup keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days and freezes beautifully.
Variations
Mediterranean Style: Add spinach and chickpeas for extra nutrition.
Herbal Twist: Swap parsley for dill or basil.
Protein Swap: Use turkey breast instead of chicken.
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with cannellini beans and vegetable broth.
Serving Ideas
Pair with crusty bread or garlic rolls.
Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for richness.
Perfect as a light lunch or hearty dinner.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total Time: ~6–7 hours
Servings: 6–8
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup is bright, comforting, and easy to make. With its tender chicken, citrusy broth, and hearty rice, it’s a dish that warms you up while keeping flavors fresh and vibrant.