“You know what’s better than takeout?” I overheard my friend ask while brainstorming dinner plans. As I stood there, the glorious thought of creamy slow cooker chicken and rice washed over me—comfort food at its finest! This delightful Crockpot Chicken and Rice is a game changer for any busy home-chef. Combining juicy chicken with hearty vegetables, it promises to be a family-friendly meal that pleases even the pickiest of eaters. Best of all, it’s a healthy option that requires minimal effort from you! Just set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker do its magic while you tackle other tasks. Curious to discover how easy it is to whip up this creamy, satisfying dish? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why Choose This Crockpot Recipe?
Effortless Cooking: This Crockpot Chicken and Rice requires minimal prep—just toss the ingredients in and let your slow cooker work its magic!
Family Favorite: With a delightful blend of flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike—perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Comfort: Packed with nutritious vegetables and lean protein, it’s a guilt-free meal that feels indulgent without compromising health.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with veggies like zucchini or swap chicken with chickpeas for a tasty vegetarian version that everyone will love!
Quick Clean-Up: With just one pot to wash, you can enjoy quality family time without the hassle of extensive clean-up.
Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing comfort dish, this recipe stands out! Don’t forget to check out our Chicken Rice Casserole for another family-friendly meal.
Crockpot Chicken and Rice Ingredients
• For a truly comforting dish, gather these essential ingredients!
For the Base
- Long-Grain Brown Rice – Provides structure and ensures a filling meal; avoid substitutions to maintain the intended texture.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Infuses the dish with rich flavor; feel free to swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
For the Vegetables
- Diced Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and essential nutrients; freshly diced carrots yield the best texture.
- Small Shallot (or Onion) – Enhances the overall flavor profile; shallots provide a milder taste than regular onions.
For the Protein
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Delivers juicy protein; opting for thighs can provide a richer flavor.
For Seasoning
- Garlic Powder – A must for adding depth to the meal.
- Dried Thyme – Lends a fragrant herbaceous note that complements the dish beautifully.
- Kosher Salt and Ground Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the flavor; adjust to your taste preferences.
For the Creaminess
- Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt – Contributes a creamy texture with a hint of tang; optional but recommended for extra creaminess.
- Freshly Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Offers a rich, cheesy flavor; swap for white cheddar if you’re looking for something sharper.
For a Pop of Color
- Frozen Peas – Adds vibrant color and nutrition; no need to thaw them before adding to the dish.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley – Perfect for garnishing; adds a fresh touch to the finished meal.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re already set for a cozy family dinner. Dive into this Crockpot Chicken and Rice, and watch your loved ones gather ’round the table asking for seconds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of long-grain brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This crucial step removes excess starch, ensuring the rice has the perfect texture. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth to a boil, and then add the rinsed rice. Cook for about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Coat the interior of your slow cooker with nonstick spray for easy cleanup. Add the partially cooked rice into the bottom, followed by 1 cup of diced carrots, 1 small chopped shallot, and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Mix everything together thoroughly, allowing the mustard to evenly coat the ingredients, creating the flavor base for your creamy Crockpot Chicken and Rice.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Next, place 1 to 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs on top of the rice mixture, ensuring they nestle in nicely. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper. The seasoning will enhance the dish’s overall flavor and infuse the chicken as it cooks.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Gently pour 2.5 cups of low-sodium chicken broth over the chicken and rice layers in the slow cooker. This broth will keep the ingredients moist while they cook, ensuring your Crockpot Chicken and Rice turns out creamy and delicious. Secure the lid on the slow cooker and set to HIGH, letting it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Step 5: Check the Chicken
After 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking, check that the chicken is no longer pink and registers an internal temperature of 165°F. Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a plate to keep warm. Stir the rice and vegetable mixture, adjusting the broth as needed if it appears too dry, then return the lid to keep everything heated while you prepare the next step.
Step 6: Cook the Rice Until Tender
Return the lid and continue cooking the rice and vegetable mixture on HIGH for another 1 to 1.5 hours. The rice should become tender and absorb the flavorful broth, mixing beautifully with the rest of the ingredients. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is creamy and the texture resembles a comforting casserole.
Step 7: Stir in the Final Ingredients
Once the rice is tender, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas and 1/2 cup of nonfat plain Greek yogurt to add creaminess. Cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and fold it gently into the mix, along with 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt into the dish, creating that delightful creamy texture we love in this Crockpot Chicken and Rice.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Re-cover the slow cooker and let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely. Once ready to serve, dish out the creamy Crockpot Chicken and Rice onto plates or into bowls. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness to your delicious meal!
What to Serve with Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice?
Cozy up your dining experience by adding complementary sides and delights that enrich each creamy bite.
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Garlic Bread: A warm slice of buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every delicious drop of the chicken and rice. It adds a crunchy texture that beautifully balances the creaminess of the dish.
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Steamed Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli introduces a vibrant color and essential nutrients, making your plate feel fresh and wholesome. Drizzle with lemon juice for a zesty kick!
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Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing of a classic Caesar salad provide a delightful contrast, enhancing your slow-cooked creation with a refreshing finish.
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Homemade Biscuits: Light and fluffy biscuits are perfect for mopping up the rich, creamy sauce. They add comfort and evoke childhood memories of family dinners.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots add an appealing, sweet twist to your meal while also contributing a lovely splash of color and nutrition.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A glass of refreshing lemonade or sweet iced tea pairs perfectly with the richness of this dish, balancing flavors while keeping your meal light and enjoyable.
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Chocolate Pudding: For dessert, treat yourself to silky chocolate pudding. Its richness complements the creamy chicken and rice, rounding out the meal with a sweet touch.
Elevate your dinner moment by mixing and matching these suggestions, making for a heartwarming feast that your family will cherish!
Make Ahead Options
This Crockpot Chicken and Rice is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the rice and vegetable mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply rinse and par-cook the rice, then combine it with diced carrots, shallots, and Dijon mustard before storing in an airtight container. The chicken can be seasoned and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days as well. When you’re ready to serve, just transfer the rice mixture to the slow cooker, add the chicken and broth, and cook as directed. This preparation ensures everything is just as delicious while saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To enjoy later, simply reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Crockpot Chicken and Rice in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing.
Reheating: To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Airtight Storage: Make sure to use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and keep the flavors fresh for your next meal.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Rice
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Right Rice: Use only long-grain brown rice for best results. Substituting other rice types can lead to texture issues.
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Check Doneness: Slow cookers vary significantly; always check your rice and chicken for doneness to avoid undercooked ingredients.
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Skip the Starch: Rinsing the rice is key to achieving a creamy consistency. Not rinsing can result in overly sticky rice.
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Flavor Variations: If you want a creamy dish without tang, skip the Greek yogurt. Alternatively, use cream of chicken soup for extra flavor.
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Vegetable Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to switch up the veggies—bell peppers or zucchini can offer new flavors and nutrition in your Crockpot Chicken and Rice.
Variations & Substitutions for Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists!
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based version that’s just as satisfying.
- Creamy Alternatives: Swap the Greek yogurt with cream of chicken soup for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
- Grain Swap: Use quinoa instead of brown rice for a gluten-free option, adjusting liquid amounts as quinoa cooks faster.
- Colorful Veggies: Mix in different vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for added color and nutrients, making every bite more vibrant!
- Cheese Lover’s Version: Add cream cheese along with cheddar for an extra creamy indulgence that will make your dishes even more comforting.
- Spice Level Up: For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to awaken the flavors and spice things up a notch!
- Savory Broth: Use homemade chicken broth instead of low-sodium for a more robust, homemade taste that elevates the entire dish.
- Herbs & Seasonings: Change up dried thyme with fresh basil or oregano to give your dish a different herbal twist, enhancing the flavor’s depth.
With these variations, you’re all set to turn this Crockpot Chicken and Rice into your family’s favorite dish. If you’re looking for another satisfying recipe, try our Chicken Wild Rice or indulge in our Chicken Salad Dish for a quick meal!
Crockpot Chicken and Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, you should use long-grain brown rice. Other types of rice, like white or instant, can lead to cooking time issues and won’t achieve the desired creamy texture. Browning rice brings a hearty element to the dish that you don’t want to miss.
How long can I store leftovers of Crockpot Chicken and Rice?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to let it cool down before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy again, gently reheat on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Rice?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze this dish in portion-sized airtight containers for up to 3 months. To freeze, ensure the casserole is completely cooled, then transfer it to the containers. For the best flavor, label your containers with the date. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it slowly on low heat to maintain its creaminess.
What should I do if the rice isn’t cooking properly?
No worries! Slow cookers can vary, and sometimes rice may need a little extra TLC. If your rice isn’t tender enough after the initial cooking time, simply cover and continue cooking on HIGH while checking every 30 minutes until it’s soft and creamy. Make sure there’s enough liquid too; you can add a splash of broth as needed.
Is this recipe suitable for people with specific dietary needs?
Very much so! This Crockpot Chicken and Rice can easily be adapted for various dietary preferences. You can swap the chicken for cubed tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version. Additionally, ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free for those avoiding gluten, and the Greek yogurt can be substituted with a dairy-free alternative if lactose intolerant.
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs directly in this recipe, and there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. However, keep in mind that using frozen chicken may add a bit of extra cooking time. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety before serving.
Crockpot Chicken and Rice: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Boil 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, then add the rinsed rice. Cook for about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Coat the slow cooker with nonstick spray. Add the partially cooked rice, diced carrots, chopped shallot, and Dijon mustard. Mix everything together thoroughly.
- Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture. Sprinkle with garlic powder, dried thyme, and seasoning.
- Pour 2.5 cups of chicken broth over the chicken and rice. Cover and cook on HIGH for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Check that the chicken is no longer pink and registers 165°F. Remove the chicken to keep warm. Stir the rice mixture.
- Continue cooking the rice mixture on HIGH for another 1 to 1.5 hours, until the rice is tender.
- Stir in frozen peas and Greek yogurt. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and fold into the mixture along with cheddar cheese.
- Cover and let sit for about 5 minutes. Serve garnished with parsley.