Crockpot Chicken and Rice

There’s something truly magical about a meal that simmers all day. My Crockpot Chicken and Rice recipe delivers just that. It’s a hug in a bowl. The chicken becomes incredibly tender. The rice soaks up all that savory goodness. This makes for a truly comforting dining experience.

This simple slow cooker chicken and rice is a lifesaver on busy evenings. It’s the kind of dish that fills your home with a wonderful aroma. Plus, leftovers store beautifully for lunches.

Why I Love This Recipe

Honestly, it’s a weeknight superhero! Imagine coming home to a fully cooked meal. That’s the beauty of this Crockpot Chicken and Rice. It’s ridiculously easy. Dump, set, and forget it! This guarantees a dinner win with minimal fuss, which busy moms and professionals totally deserve.

• Super Simple: Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
• Flavorful: Rich, savory, and totally satisfying.
• Comforting: A warm hug on a plate.

Crockpot Chicken and Rice Ingredients

The beauty of this Crockpot Chicken and Rice lies in its simple, readily available ingredients. They come together to create a comforting symphony of flavors and textures. This dish is a true testament to how a few pantry staples can become something truly special.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken: The star of our dish, providing protein and a tender texture. Both breasts and thighs work wonderfully here.
• White Rice: This grain absorbs all the delicious liquid, becoming perfectly fluffy. Rinsing it helps remove excess starch.
• Chicken Broth: This is our flavor base. It brings depth and moisture, crucial for cooking the rice and chicken.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds a wonderfully creamy texture and rich flavor. It’s the secret to that cozy, homemade taste.
• Onion Soup Mix: A little packet packed with savory onion flavor. It perfectly complements the chicken and broth.
• Frozen Peas (Optional): For a pop of color and sweetness. They add a nice touch of freshness near the end.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning. We’ll just use a little to enhance all the other flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous finish and makes the dish look extra special.

Substitutions and Tips

Don’t have cream of chicken soup? Try cream of mushroom or even a dairy-free alternative for a similar creamy effect. If you’re out of white rice, brown rice can work, but you’ll need to extend the cooking time. For extra flavor, a pinch of garlic powder or a bay leaf added with the liquids can be lovely. Remember, the exact amounts are in the recipe card below!

How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Rice

Making this easy Crockpot Chicken and Rice is a breeze. You’ll love how little effort it takes. This slow cooker chicken and rice recipe guarantees a delicious outcome.

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

First things first! Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker. This little step prevents any sticking. It makes cleanup so much simpler later.

Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker

Next, place your chicken pieces right at the bottom. They’ll nestle in nicely. This sets the stage for even cooking.

Step 3: Mix the Flavor Base

Grab a medium bowl for this. Whisk together the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Add the onion soup mix too. Stir until everything is nicely combined. This creates our savory sauce.

Step 4: Add Liquid to the Pot

Pour that delicious liquid mixture over the chicken. Make sure it covers the chicken well. This is where all the magic happens.

Step 5: Stir in the Rice

Now, add the rinsed white rice to the slow cooker. Give it a gentle stir. You want most of the rice submerged in the liquid. Good hydration is key for fluffy rice.

Step 6: Seasoning Time

Season generously with salt and black pepper. Taste the liquid if you can. Adjust as needed. Getting the seasoning right is important.

Step 7: Cook Low and Slow (or Fast!)

Cover the Crockpot Chicken and Rice tightly. Set it to the low setting for about 3 to 4 hours. Or, you can opt for the high setting for 2 to 3 hours. Cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. The rice should be perfectly tender, too.

Step 8: Add Optional Peas

If you’re using frozen peas, stir them in now. Do this during the last 30 minutes of cooking. They’ll heat through nicely.

Step 9: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Use two forks for this. Or, carefully remove the chicken, shred it, and then return it to the pot. This makes it easy to eat.

Step 10: Final Stir and Serve

Give everything a good final stir. This ensures the shredded chicken is mixed with the rice and sauce. Serve your hot Crockpot Chicken and Rice immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like!

How to Store Crockpot Chicken and Rice

Leftover Crockpot Chicken and Rice stores beautifully. Cool completely. Refrigerate in an airtight container. It should last for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions. Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags. Properly frozen, it keeps well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if needed.

Tips for Success

• Rinse your rice before adding it. This removes excess starch. It helps prevent clumping.
• Don’t overfill your slow cooker. Leave enough room for steam to escape.
• Check chicken doneness with a thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Salt and pepper make a big difference.
• For a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water. Add it in the last 30 minutes.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Here are the essentials for your Crockpot Chicken and Rice:

• Slow cooker (a 6-quart size is ideal)
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Forks (for shredding chicken)
• Serving spoon

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this comforting Crockpot Chicken and Rice with a simple side salad.
• Steamed green beans or broccoli make a great healthy addition.
• A light, crisp white wine pairs beautifully.
• Presentation is key; a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Crockpot Chicken and Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the liquid mixture and rinse the rice ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, just combine everything in the slow cooker when it’s time to cook.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

No worries! You can adapt this Crockpot Chicken and Rice recipe for the stovetop. Sauté aromatics, brown the chicken, add liquids and rice, then simmer covered on low heat until cooked. It just takes careful watching.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Certainly! Brown rice works in this slow cooker chicken and rice dish. Just know it needs more liquid and a longer cooking time. You’ll likely need about 1 to 2 extra hours on low. Ensure it’s fully tender.

How can I make this dish heartier?

For a heartier meal, consider adding some diced carrots or potatoes along with the rice. You could also stir in some hearty greens like spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking. It adds great nutrients!

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