Crockpot Chicken and Rice

If you’re craving a warm, comforting, and no-fuss meal, this Crockpot Chicken and Rice recipe delivers all that and more. It’s a one-pot wonder where tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, flavorful sauce come together with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weekdays, cozy weekends, or feeding the whole family, this slow cooker meal will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Set It and Forget It – Just toss in the ingredients and let your crockpot do all the work.
Creamy and Hearty – The rice and chicken soak up all the delicious flavors while staying moist and tender.
Family-Friendly – Simple, mild flavors that kids and adults both enjoy.
Customizable – Add your favorite veggies, swap in different spices, or use brown rice for more fiber.
Minimal Cleanup – One pot means fewer dishes and more time to relax.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

Optional Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Extra shredded cheese
• Cracked black pepper

Tools You’ll Need

• 6-quart crockpot or slow cooker
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or tongs

Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Crockpot

1. Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with nonstick spray.
2. Add uncooked rice to the bottom of the crockpot and spread evenly.

Step 2: Add the Ingredients

1. Place chicken breasts or thighs on top of the rice.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and seasonings—salt, pepper, parsley, and paprika.
3. Pour the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth over everything.
4. Gently stir just the liquids and veggies without disturbing the rice at the bottom.
5. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2½–3½ hours.

Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches

1. Once the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender, remove the chicken and shred or dice it.
2. Return the chicken to the crockpot and stir in the sour cream, frozen peas, and shredded cheese (if using).
3. Mix everything until creamy and well combined.
4. Cover and cook on low for another 15–20 minutes to warm through.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Spoon the creamy chicken and rice into bowls or onto plates.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Use Long Grain White Rice – It holds its shape best during slow cooking. Avoid instant or minute rice.
Don’t Overcook – Check at the minimum cook time to keep the chicken juicy and rice from becoming mushy.
Add Dairy Last – Stir in sour cream and cheese at the end to avoid curdling.
Customize the Veggies – Add broccoli, green beans, or corn for variety.
Make it Cheesy – Stir in more cheese if you like extra gooey comfort food.

Serving Suggestions
As a Complete Meal – This dish is filling on its own with carbs, protein, and veggies.
With a Salad – A simple green salad adds freshness and balance.
Garlic Bread or Rolls – Great for scooping up every last bite.
With Steamed Veggies – Serve with broccoli, spinach, or zucchini for extra greens.
Kid-Friendly Platter – Portion with fruit slices and crackers for a fun dinner plate.

How to Store & Reheat
Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Reheat individual portions in 30–60 second intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or milk and reheat over medium-low heat until warmed through.
• Avoid oven reheating as it can dry out the rice.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but it takes longer to cook and may require slightly more liquid. Monitor it closely.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are juicy and flavorful—just trim the excess fat first.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Skip the sour cream and cheese, and use a dairy-free condensed soup alternative.

4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but be sure your crockpot can handle the volume, and increase the cooking time slightly.

5. What if my rice is still hard?
Add a splash of broth, cover, and cook on low for an extra 30 minutes.

Final Thoughts
Crockpot Chicken and Rice is the definition of comfort food made easy. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and perfectly seasoned veggies, it’s a meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Simple to prepare, affordable, and endlessly customizable, this recipe deserves a permanent spot on your dinner rotation.

Try it once, and it’ll become one of your go-to slow cooker meals!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4–5 hours (low) or 2½–3½ hours (high)
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 430 | Protein: 32g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 650mg

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