This Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup is a comforting, hearty dish packed with tender chicken, rice, and a light, zesty lemon flavor. Perfect for cold days or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying, this soup is easy to prepare and cooks to perfection in your slow cooker.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice (or wild rice blend)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• Juice of 2 lemons (about ¼ cup)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale for added greens
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest for extra brightness
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

For Serving:

• Crusty bread or rolls
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Place the chicken breasts, uncooked rice, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients, making sure everything is submerged.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Soup

1. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
2. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Lemon

1. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice, mixing well.
2. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or dill.
2. Pair with crusty bread and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Cooking Notes

• Rice: You can use wild rice, brown rice, or quinoa for different textures. If using instant rice, add it during the last hour of cooking to avoid overcooking.
• Cream: If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Variations

1. Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Substitute the rice with orzo (a small pasta) for a twist on this classic dish. Add the orzo during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.

2. Vegetable Chicken Soup

For a veggie-packed version, add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or green beans during the last hour of cooking.

3. Greek-Inspired Lemon Chicken Soup

Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and finish the soup with a drizzle of olive oil for a Greek flavor twist. You can also stir in some crumbled feta cheese before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can make this soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from drying out.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the rice absorbs too much liquid, you can add more broth or water when reheating.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

Q: Can I use other grains?
Yes, you can substitute the rice with grains like farro, barley, or quinoa. Adjust the cooking time based on the grain you use.

This Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup is the perfect combination of comfort and freshness. With tender chicken, creamy broth, and a zesty lemon flavor, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy dinner. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal that the whole family will love.