There’s something magical about the aroma of a comforting soup simmering away in a slow cooker. It’s like a warm hug from the kitchen, inviting you to sit down, relax, and savor each spoonful. If you love the bright and refreshing flavors of lemon, then this Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup is perfect for you. Tender pieces of chicken, wholesome rice, and vibrant lemony goodness come together to create a soup that is both comforting and invigorating.
A few years ago, while battling a winter cold, I stumbled upon this recipe. Feeling drained and achy, I wanted something nourishing and comforting. I gathered the ingredients, tossed them into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while I rested.
The moment I lifted the lid, I was greeted by a tantalizing aroma. As I took my first spoonful, the tanginess of the lemon, the tender morsels of chicken, and the comforting warmth of the rice created a burst of sunshine in a bowl. From that moment, this recipe became a staple in my kitchen, a go-to for any time I needed a comforting yet invigorating meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup minute rice
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons butter, salted and cut into chunks
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a slow cooker, combine the chicken, chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and butter chunks. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Shred Chicken and Add Rice: With about 30 minutes left, shred the chicken (this can be done outside the slow cooker) and put it back in. Add the minute rice and cook for another 30 minutes on high.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup.
A Bowl of Comfort and Sunshine
This Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm, comforting embrace in a bowl. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up, the subtle tanginess of the lemon combined with tender chicken and wholesome rice is sure to lift your spirits. Save this recipe and let it be your go-to soup for those moments when you need a comforting and invigorating bowl of goodness. Enjoy!