Ingredients

2 limes, juiced (about ¼ cup), plus more to taste

1 large bunch cilantro, stems included, plus more for garnish

8 cloves garlic, peeled

1 (2-inch) piece ginger, peeled and roughly chopped

3 tablespoons canola oil

1 tablespoon kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal), plus more to taste

½ teaspoon ground turmeric

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1½ cups long-grain white rice, preferably basmati

1¼ cups chicken stock or broth

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

Slivered almonds or coarsely chopped cashews, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the lime juice, cilantro, garlic, ginger, oil, salt, and turmeric in a blender. Purée the mixture until smooth, then scrape it into a 6- to 8-quart slow cooker. Add the chicken thighs and stir to coat them thoroughly with the sauce.

Step 2: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents clumping. Use a bowl and strainer to rinse the rice, changing the water several times as needed.

Step 3: Spread the rinsed rice evenly on top of the chicken in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken stock over the rice and sprinkle the cumin seeds on top.

Step 4: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 hours and 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the rice is cooked through.

Step 5: Gently fluff the rice with a fork and break the chicken into smaller pieces. Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or lime juice if desired.

Step 6: Serve the chicken and rice topped with slivered almonds or chopped cashews and garnish with extra cilantro leaves.

Tips & Variations

For extra brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving.

Swap boneless chicken thighs for chicken breasts if preferred, but reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying out.

Try adding a diced jalapeño to the blender mix for a spicy kick.

Use vegetable broth for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option, substituting the chicken thighs with firm tofu or legumes.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid, so it’s not ideal for this slow cooker recipe without adjustments. If using brown rice, cook the chicken separately and add cooked brown rice at the end to avoid overcooking.

Is it necessary to rinse the rice?

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, which helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky or gummy. While it’s not absolutely required, rinsing greatly improves the texture of the finished dish.