Crock Pot Chicken Rice has become my absolute go-to for those busy weeknights when dinner feels like a mountain to climb. I remember one particularly hectic Tuesday when I felt completely overwhelmed, but the aroma of savory chicken and tender rice simmering away in my slow cooker saved the day. This effortlessly delicious slow cooker chicken and rice is so comforting, with creamy, tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice that practically melts in your mouth. It’s truly the best easy crock pot chicken and rice recipe for busy families. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Chicken Rice
This recipe is a weeknight game-changer for so many reasons:
- Unbeatable Flavor: It’s incredibly creamy and savory, a true comfort food classic.
- Minimal Prep Time: You just chop a few things and toss them in, making it an easy crock pot chicken and rice meal.
- Healthy Options: Packed with protein and customizable with veggies, you can easily make it a healthy crock pot chicken and rice.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients that feed the whole family.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will devour this delicious dish.
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, meaning less time in the kitchen for you.
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks together, simplifying cleanup significantly.
- Truly Easy: This easy crock pot chicken and rice recipe is foolproof and consistently delicious.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Chicken Rice
Gathering the ingredients for this delightful crock pot creamy chicken and rice is super simple and results in a wonderfully comforting meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces – this is the protein powerhouse of our dish.
- 3 cloves Minced garlic – for that essential aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon Salt – to enhance all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper – for a touch of warmth.
- 1 medium Chopped onion – this adds a sweet and savory base.
- 4 cups Chicken broth (low-sodium recommended) – the liquid base that cooks the rice and keeps everything moist.
- 1 can Cream of chicken soup – this is the magic ingredient for that signature creamy texture.
- 1 cup Uncooked brown rice – brown rice holds up well to the slow cooking process, absorbing flavor beautifully.
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese – stirred in at the end for a gooey, cheesy finish that makes it irresistible.
- Optional Add-Ins: 1 cup Frozen peas, 1 cup Frozen carrots, 1 cup Frozen broccoli, 1 cup Bell peppers, 1 cup Corn, 1 teaspoon Paprika, 1 teaspoon Italian herbs – feel free to customize!
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Rice
Creating this delicious one pot chicken and rice crock pot meal is incredibly straightforward. You’ll be amazed at how little effort it takes to achieve such a comforting and flavorful dish.
- Step 1: Begin by adding all your main ingredients directly into your crockpot. This includes the 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and the 1 medium chopped onion.
- Step 2: Pour in the 4 cups chicken broth and add the 1 can cream of chicken soup. Make sure to give everything a gentle stir to combine. It’s satisfying to see all the components mingling together, promising a delicious outcome.
- Step 3: Now, add the 1 cup uncooked brown rice. This is where the magic of the one pot chicken and rice crock pot really shines, as everything cooks together harmoniously.
- Step 4: Cover the crockpot securely with its lid. Set the temperature to HIGH and let it cook for 3.5 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice has absorbed all the broth and is perfectly tender. The aroma filling your kitchen during this time is simply divine!
- Step 5: Once the cooking time is up and the rice is tender, it’s time for the cheesy finale. Stir in the 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 6: Cover the crockpot again and let it sit for about 5-7 minutes. This short resting period allows the cheese to melt into a gooey, luscious blanket over the chicken and rice, transforming it into a truly decadent dish.
- Step 7: Give it one final gentle stir, and your incredible crock pot chicken and rice is ready to be served. For an extra touch of freshness and color, consider garnishing with some chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal!
Pro Tips for the Best Crock Pot Chicken Rice
Want to elevate your slow cooker chicken and rice game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference:
- For the absolute best texture, use brown rice. It holds up beautifully and absorbs all the creamy flavors without getting mushy.
- Don’t be afraid to add your favorite veggies! Frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli stirred in during the last 30 minutes of cooking are fantastic.
- If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider cutting them a bit smaller so they cook through evenly with the rice.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Sometimes a little extra salt or pepper is all it needs to sing.
What’s the secret to perfect crock pot chicken and rice?
The secret to truly perfect crock pot chicken and rice lies in the creamy soup base and allowing the rice to fully absorb the liquid. Using brown rice also contributes to a better texture in this slow cooker chicken and rice dish.
Can I make crock pot chicken and rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients for your crock pot chicken and rice the night before! Store the uncooked ingredients (chicken, rice, veggies, broth, soup) in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time in the morning.
How do I avoid common mistakes with crock pot chicken and rice?
A common pitfall is mushy rice, which can happen if white rice is used or if it’s overcooked. Always use brown rice and stick to the recommended cooking times. Also, avoid over-stirring after adding the cheese, as this can make the dish greasy. For more information on slow cooking, check out Food Network’s guide to slow cookers.
Best Ways to Serve Crock Pot Chicken Rice
Once your crock pot chicken and rice is perfectly cooked and creamy, you might wonder what to serve alongside it. For a complete and satisfying meal, I love pairing it with a simple side salad. The crisp, fresh greens offer a lovely contrast to the rich, comforting flavors of the chicken and rice. Alternatively, a side of steamed green beans or a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and extra freshness. This dish is truly a fantastic option for crock pot chicken and rice for dinner, making any weeknight feel a little more special. You might also enjoy these breakfast bowl recipes with eggs for a different mealtime inspiration.
Nutrition Facts for Crock Pot Chicken Rice
This comforting dish offers a satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you opt for full-sodium soup or broth.
How to Store and Reheat Crock Pot Chicken Rice
This delicious crock pot chicken and rice is fantastic for leftovers! Once it’s cooled down a bit, transfer it to airtight containers. It should stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. You can freeze portions of your crock pot shredded chicken and rice for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is simple. For refrigerated leftovers, you can gently reheat them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave them until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow the dish to thaw overnight in the refrigerator first. You can also reheat frozen portions directly in the microwave on a lower power setting, stirring halfway through, but be patient to ensure it heats evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Chicken Rice
What is the best liquid to use for crock pot chicken rice?
Chicken broth is the standard and really adds a great depth of flavor to your crock pot chicken rice. Low-sodium is a good choice so you can control the saltiness. Some people also use vegetable broth for a lighter taste, or even a mix of broth and water if they’re trying to stretch ingredients.
How do I make crock pot chicken and rice without cream of chicken soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can still make a delicious slow cooker chicken and rice! Try using a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup, or for a healthier option, whisk together 1/2 cup of milk or half-and-half with 2 tablespoons of flour to create a slurry, then add it to the crockpot. This helps achieve that creamy texture. For more dinner ideas, explore our recipes.
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice in my crock pot chicken and rice?
Yes, you absolutely can! If you prefer white rice, just be aware that it cooks much faster. You’ll want to reduce the cooking time to about 2 to 2.5 hours on high, or until the rice is tender. This is a great way to speed up the process if you’re in a hurry to get your crock pot chicken and rice ready for dinner.
My crock pot chicken and rice turned out dry, what did I do wrong?
Dry results usually happen if there isn’t enough liquid or if the cooking time was too long. Ensure you’re using the correct amount of broth and that your crockpot lid is sealed tightly. If you find it’s still too dry, stir in a bit more broth or even a splash of milk after cooking. This method of how to make crock pot chicken and rice is usually very forgiving, so a little adjustment is often all it needs. You might also find our cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe to be a great side dish.
Variations of Crock Pot Chicken Rice You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic crock pot chicken rice, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many delicious ways to adapt this recipe. For a healthy crock pot chicken and rice option, try swapping the cream of chicken soup for a lighter base. You could use Greek yogurt or a cashew cream, and add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for more nutrients and color. If you’re craving a different flavor profile, consider a crock pot lemon herb chicken and rice by adding fresh lemon zest, parsley, and dill during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You could also experiment with a slow cooker chicken rice bake by adding a layer of cheese and breadcrumbs on top during the final 15 minutes to get a lovely crust. For more dessert inspiration, check out our desserts category.
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Craving Crock Pot Chicken Rice? 4 Easy Steps
- Total Time: 3 hours 52 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and creamy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice recipe that’s easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights. This one-pot meal delivers tender chicken and flavorful rice with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves Minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 medium Chopped onion
- 4 cups Chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 can Cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup Uncooked brown rice
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional Add-Ins: 1 cup Frozen peas, 1 cup Frozen carrots, 1 cup Frozen broccoli, 1 cup Bell peppers, 1 cup Corn, 1 teaspoon Paprika, 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
Instructions
- In your crockpot, add the cut chicken breasts, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, chopped onion, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and uncooked brown rice.
- Stir gently until everything is well mixed.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on high for 3.5 to 4 hours, or until the rice has absorbed all the broth and is tender.
- After cooking, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover again and let it sit for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
- Once the cheese is melted and gooey, serve your crockpot chicken and rice warm.
- Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness.
Notes
- Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
- If the dish seems too thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Brown rice is recommended for its durability; if using white rice, reduce cooking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg