Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe – Easy & Comforting One-Pot Meal
If you’re searching for a hearty, family-friendly dinner that requires minimal effort, this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is the answer. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With just a handful of ingredients and your slow cooker, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready with very little hands-on time.
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice
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Easy Prep: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
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Comfort Food Classic: Creamy chicken, tender rice, and gooey melted cheese—what’s not to love?
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Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this dish.
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Customizable: Add veggies like peas, carrots, or broccoli to make it even more wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this slow cooker chicken and rice recipe, gather the following:
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2 boneless skinless chicken breasts – cut into 1-inch pieces
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1 teaspoon minced garlic – fresh or jarred
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 onion – chopped
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3 cups chicken broth
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1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup – for creamy richness
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1 1/2 cups brown rice (uncooked) – adds texture and heartiness
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – melty and delicious
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Load the Crock Pot
Place the chicken pieces, garlic, salt, pepper, onion, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and uncooked brown rice into the crock pot. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
Step 2: Slow Cook
Cover the crock pot and cook on high for 3.5–4 hours, or until the rice has absorbed the broth and turned tender. Stir occasionally if needed.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Once the rice is fully cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Cover again and let the heat melt the cheese for about 5–7 minutes.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Give the dish a final stir, serve warm, and enjoy your comforting bowl of crock pot chicken and rice!
Expert Tips for the Best Chicken and Rice in a Crock Pot
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Rice Type Matters: Brown rice works best for slow cooking. If using white rice, reduce cook time slightly.
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Prevent Dryness: If the rice absorbs liquid too quickly, add an extra 1/2 cup of chicken broth during cooking.
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Add Veggies: Stir in frozen peas, broccoli florets, or diced carrots for added nutrition.
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Make It Creamier: Swap cheddar for a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra gooey texture.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Chicken and Rice
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs wonderfully with:
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Steamed or roasted vegetables
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A crisp garden salad
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Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or milk to bring back creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is the ultimate comfort food—simple, filling, and loved by the whole family. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just craving a cozy one-pot meal, this recipe is a keeper. Try it tonight, and watch it become a new household favorite!