There’s something so comforting about the smell of slow-cooked chicken and rice wafting through the house. This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is the perfect cozy dinner, loved for its simplicity and heartiness. Perfect for busy weeknights, it brings everyone to the table with ease.
Imagine tender chicken, creamy rice, and a hint of savory spices all bubbling together in one pot. It’s like your grandma’s classic dish, but ready with minimal effort! With just a few pantry staples and no fancy techniques needed, you’ll have a meal that feels indulgent without the fuss. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
I started making this recipe during chilly autumn evenings back in 2017, when I needed something warm and satisfying after a long day. The first time it simmered, my kids rushed in, their eyes lighting up at the smell. The secret? Add a sprinkle of parsley just before serving for that fresh pop of flavor. Trust me, it transforms the dish from good to unforgettable!
Yesica Andrews
Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe Perfect Cozy Dinner
This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is the ultimate easy crockpot recipes with rice for a comforting family meal. Featuring tender chicken pieces simmered with hearty brown rice and cheesy goodness, it’s one of the best crockpot meals with rice you can prepare with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines simple ingredients into a deliciously creamy casserole right in your slow cooker.
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1 inch pieces)
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ onion chopped
3 cups chicken broth
1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can)
1 ½ cup brown rice (uncooked)
2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
Method
Combine the chicken, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, chopped onion, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and brown rice in your crockpot. Mix everything well to ensure even distribution.
Cover the crockpot and cook on high heat for about 3 and a half to 4 hours, until the rice has absorbed the chicken broth and is tender.
Mix the shredded cheddar cheese into the hot mixture, then cover and let it sit for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the cheese to melt thoroughly.
Dish out the warm cheesy chicken and rice, then serve and savor your cozy homemade dinner.
Notes
Brown rice works best here as it holds up well during the long cook time. Avoid using white rice as it tends to get mushy. If the dish seems too thick after cooking, slowly add more chicken broth in 1/4 cup increments until desired consistency is reached. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cozy Comfort: This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe fills your home with delightful aromas, reminiscent of meals shared around family tables.
Easy Prep: Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy your day!
Family-Approved: With tender chicken and creamy, cheesy rice, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at dinner time.
Healthy Twist: Brown rice provides a wholesome base, making this meal both hearty and nutritious.
Key Ingredients & Tools
Crockpot: A trusty slow cooker is your best friend here!
Chicken: Use boneless, skinless breasts cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Brown Rice: Choose uncooked brown rice for its nutty flavor and its ability to hold up well in the crockpot.
Broth & Soup: The chicken broth and cream of chicken soup create a rich, flavorful base that keeps everything moist.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese adds a creamy finish that brings everything together.
How It Works Step-by-Step
Combine all main ingredients in your crock pot: chicken, garlic, salt, pepper, onion, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and brown rice.
Stir everything well to ensure each piece is coated and content.
Cover the pot and cook on high for 3.5 to 4 hours, or until the rice absorbs all the broth.
After cooking, stir in the shredded cheese, cover again, and let the heat melt it for 5-7 minutes.
Serve warm, and don’t forget that sprinkle of parsley for a pop of flavor!
Troubleshooting Tips
Too Thick? If your dish turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in more chicken broth, ¼ cup at a time.
Rice Not Cooked? If your rice isn’t fully cooked, it might need a little extra time! Add broth if needed and continue cooking.
Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to add herbs or spices that you love! A little paprika or thyme can elevate the dish.
Serving & Storage
Serve warm: Pair this dish with a light salad for a balanced meal that’s perfect for any season.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheating Tip: When reheating, add a splash of broth to restore that creamy texture!
Ingredient
Substitutions
Brown Rice
Quinoa or whole wheat couscous (may alter cooking time)
Cheddar Cheese
Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick
Cream of Chicken Soup
Cream of Mushroom soup or homemade white sauce
Expert Says
When crafting a CROCK POT CHICKEN AND RICE RECIPE, it’s crucial to use bone-in chicken thighs for added moisture and flavor. The slow cooking process allows the collagen in the bones to break down, enriching the dish with a silky texture and deeper taste while also enhancing its nutritional value.
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The Quest for the Perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
After several attempts and a few kitchen disasters, I finally nailed this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice recipe. I learned the importance of patience when waiting for those flavors to meld beautifully together, and now it’s a comforting family favorite that brings smiles around our dinner table.
FAQs ( Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe )
How do I keep my Crock Pot chicken from being dry?
To prevent dry chicken, ensure you’re using enough liquid, such as broth or cream. Cooking on low for a longer period typically helps retain moisture. Consider adding the chicken in larger pieces to reduce the surface area exposed to heat, keeping it juicier. You can also marinate the chicken beforehand for added flavor and moisture.
Can I use brown rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so increase the cooking time by about an hour. Make sure to add extra liquid to ensure it cooks fully while the chicken is tender. Experiment to find the perfect balance for your desired consistency.
What vegetables can I add to the dish?
You can add a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers, for added flavor and nutrition. Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Adding them in the last hour of cooking helps maintain some texture, so they don’t become overly mushy. Adjust according to your taste preferences!
How can I make this meal spicier?
To spice up this meal, consider adding red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños. You can also use spicy broth or add a splash of hot sauce while cooking. For layered flavors, sauté garlic and onions with spices before adding them to the slow cooker.
How do I store leftovers?
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing. Transfer them to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label them with the date for easy reference!
Conclusion
You’ll love how this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe fills your home with warmth and cozy aromas, all while being a breeze to prepare! In just a few hours, you’ll have a dish that’s comforting and oh-so-satisfying.
Want to make it your own? Try swapping in some veggies like peas or carrots for added nutrition, or a sprinkle of Italian herbs for a twist that brightens the flavors! A trick I learned from my aunt is to serve it with a simple green salad. Don’t forget, leftovers reheat beautifullyjust add a splash of broth to keep it creamy!
I’d love to see your take on this cozy dish! Did you grow up with a similar recipe? Share your photos and memories, or save it for future family gatherings. Let’s bring the joy of homemade meals to the table!
