Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Solution

Welcome to the ultimate guide for a dish that promises to become a staple in your household: the Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe. In a world where time is a precious commodity, finding recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort is like striking culinary gold. This isn’t just another dinner idea; it’s a promise of warmth, nourishment, and a hassle-free cooking experience that allows you to reclaim your evenings. Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a medley of comforting vegetables, all simmering together in a creamy, savory sauce. That’s the magic of this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe.

This dish embodies everything you love about home-cooked meals: it’s hearty, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned slow cooker enthusiast or new to the wonders of “set it and forget it” cooking, this recipe is designed for success. We’ll walk you through every step, from selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the perfect cooking times, ensuring your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice turns out flawlessly every single time. Get ready to simplify your meal prep, delight your taste buds, and add a truly remarkable recipe to your repertoire. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, ideal for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or any time you crave a dish that feels like home.

The beauty of this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a one-pot wonder that streamlines your cooking process, leaving you with fewer dishes and more time to enjoy with your loved ones. Forget the stress of juggling multiple pans and timers; your slow cooker takes center stage, transforming simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful masterpiece. This dish is designed to cater to everyone, from picky eaters to gourmet palates, making it a universal crowd-pleaser. Prepare to be amazed by how easily you can create a meal that tastes like it took hours, but only demanded minutes of your active attention. The Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is here to revolutionize your dinner routine, bringing convenience and deliciousness together in one perfect package.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe will swiftly climb to the top of your favorite meals list. First and foremost, it’s the epitome of convenience. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare wholesome, home-cooked meals can be a significant challenge. This recipe removes that hurdle entirely. With just a few minutes of prep in the morning or the night before, you can set your slow cooker and return hours later to a fully cooked, delicious dinner. The “set it and forget it” nature of slow cooking is truly a game-changer, allowing you to focus on other tasks, whether it’s work, family, or simply relaxing, knowing that a hearty meal is taking care of itself.

Another major draw of this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is the minimal cleanup required. Who enjoys tackling a mountain of dirty dishes after a long day? This one-pot wonder significantly reduces post-dinner chores. All the magic happens in a single vessel, meaning less scrubbing, less soaking, and more time for what truly matters. The ingredients cook together, allowing their flavors to meld and deepen beautifully, creating a richness that’s hard to achieve with conventional stovetop or oven methods. The slow, gentle cooking process tenderizes the chicken to perfection, making it fall-apart tender, while the rice absorbs all the savory broth, resulting in a creamy, comforting texture that’s incredibly satisfying.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile and forgiving. While we provide precise measurements and instructions, there’s ample room for customization. Don’t have a specific vegetable on hand? Feel free to swap it out for something similar. Want to adjust the seasoning to your family’s preferences? Go for it! The basic framework of this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is robust enough to handle minor tweaks without compromising on flavor or quality. It’s a budget-friendly option too, utilizing common, inexpensive ingredients that are readily available at any grocery store. You don’t need exotic spices or specialty items to create a meal that tastes gourmet. This accessibility makes it a perfect choice for weekly meal planning, ensuring you can consistently deliver delicious and nutritious dinners without breaking the bank.

Furthermore, the resulting dish is a complete meal in itself, offering a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. You won’t need to prepare multiple side dishes, saving you even more time and effort. It’s a wholesome option that provides sustained energy and keeps you feeling full and satisfied. The comforting nature of chicken and rice makes it an ideal meal for chilly evenings, a pick-me-up on a stressful day, or simply a delicious way to bring the family together around the dinner table. The tender chicken, creamy rice, and soft vegetables create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that appeal to both children and adults alike. It’s a truly comforting and reliable meal that you’ll find yourself turning to again and again, cementing its place as a beloved family favorite.

Why You Should Make This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Today

If you’re on the fence about trying a new recipe, let us convince you why the Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe should be your next culinary adventure. Beyond its inherent deliciousness, this dish offers a unique blend of practical benefits that make it an indispensable addition to your cooking repertoire. For starters, it’s incredibly beginner-friendly. Even if you consider yourself a novice in the kitchen, the slow cooker does most of the heavy lifting. The steps are straightforward, the ingredients are common, and the chances of success are incredibly high. There’s no complex technique or delicate timing required, making it a stress-free cooking experience for anyone.

This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is also an absolute lifesaver for busy households. Are you juggling work, school pickups, extracurricular activities, and still trying to put a nutritious meal on the table? The slow cooker is your secret weapon. By doing a little prep in the morning, you can have a hot, homemade dinner ready by evening, eliminating the need for last-minute takeout or processed meals. This not only saves you money but also ensures your family is eating well. The aroma that fills your home as this dish simmers is an added bonus, creating an inviting and comforting atmosphere that truly signals “dinner is ready.”

Moreover, this recipe is a master of flavor development. The extended cooking time in the slow cooker allows the seasonings, broth, and creamy soup to deeply penetrate the chicken and vegetables, creating a depth of flavor that quick-cook methods simply can’t achieve. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth, while the rice absorbs all that savory goodness, turning into a creamy, flavorful foundation for the dish. It’s a truly nourishing meal that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for any season, but especially inviting on a cool evening. The combination of simple, wholesome ingredients creates a hearty meal that truly satisfies.

From a nutritional standpoint, the Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is a winner. It provides a balanced meal with lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the rice, and essential vitamins and fiber from the array of vegetables. You have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to choose fresh, high-quality produce and lean cuts of meat. This makes it a healthier alternative to many quick dinner options, supporting a balanced diet for you and your family. The fact that it’s a complete meal in one pot means fewer dishes, less fuss, and more time to enjoy your evening. It’s truly a no-brainer for anyone seeking delicious, convenient, and wholesome meals without the usual dinner-time stress. Give this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe a try today, and discover your new favorite way to cook a comforting meal.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

To embark on your journey to creating the perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe, you’ll need a selection of fresh, wholesome ingredients and a few common kitchen tools. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, requiring readily available items that deliver maximum flavor.

Essential Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Chicken breasts offer a leaner option and shred easily, while thighs provide a richer flavor and stay incredibly moist. For the ultimate tenderness in your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe, chicken thighs are often preferred as they are less prone to drying out during the long slow-cooking process. Using boneless and skinless cuts ensures that you won’t have to deal with bones or excess fat when shredding the chicken later, making for a smoother, more enjoyable texture in the final dish.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Onions form the aromatic base of this dish, adding a fundamental layer of savory flavor. A large onion provides ample sweetness and depth once cooked down in the slow cooker. Don’t worry about perfectly uniform cuts; roughly chopped is perfectly fine as it will soften considerably.
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced: Carrots contribute natural sweetness, vibrant color, and essential vitamins. Dicing them ensures they cook evenly and become tender, integrating seamlessly into the creamy rice. Their subtle earthiness complements the chicken and rice beautifully.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: Celery adds a delicate crunch and a distinct, fresh aroma that rounds out the classic mirepoix (onion, carrot, celery) base. Like the carrots, dicing helps them soften properly and distribute throughout the dish.
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup): This is the secret to the incredibly creamy texture and rich flavor of the Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe. Cream of chicken soup provides a classic savory chicken base, while cream of mushroom soup offers a deeper, earthier profile. Choose whichever you prefer, or even a combination for complex flavor.
• 2 cups chicken broth: The broth is crucial for providing the liquid necessary to cook both the chicken and later, the rice. Opt for a good quality low-sodium chicken broth to control the overall saltiness of your dish. It ensures the ingredients are submerged and absorb ample moisture and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A pantry staple, garlic powder provides a consistent garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic, which can sometimes become too pungent in long cooking. It integrates smoothly into the liquid base.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder enhances the natural onion flavor, adding another layer of savory depth to your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe. It helps to ensure a rich, all-encompassing onion taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme is a classic herb that pairs wonderfully with chicken and vegetables, lending a subtle, earthy, and slightly floral note. Dried herbs hold up well during slow cooking, infusing the dish with their essence.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of warmth and a gentle bite, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce.
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Salt is essential for enhancing all the other flavors. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust at the end of cooking, as the soup and broth also contain sodium.
• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked: Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe as it cooks up fluffy and absorbs the liquid well without becoming overly sticky or mushy, provided it’s added at the correct stage. Do not use instant rice as it will overcook.
• 1 cup frozen green peas (optional): Added at the very end, peas provide a pop of color, a touch of sweetness, and fresh texture. They cook quickly and shouldn’t be added too early to avoid them becoming mushy.
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a vibrant, fresh note and a beautiful visual appeal, elevating the presentation of your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe.

Recommended Utensils and Tools:

• 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker / Crock Pot: This is the star of the show! A 6-quart capacity is perfect for this recipe, allowing enough space for all ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding. Make sure your slow cooker has a functioning lid that seals well to retain moisture and heat.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe.
• Cutting board: For safely chopping your chicken and vegetables. A sturdy board will make preparation much easier.
• Sharp knife: A good quality knife is crucial for efficiently chopping onions, carrots, celery, and for preparing the chicken.
• Medium mixing bowl: To whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and seasonings before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Whisk or fork: For smoothly combining the liquids and spices in the mixing bowl.
• Tongs or slotted spoon: Useful for carefully removing the cooked chicken from the slow cooker for shredding.
• Two forks: The simplest and most effective tools for shredding the tender cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Ladle: For serving your delicious Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe once it’s ready.
• Cooking spray or oil: For lightly greasing the slow cooker insert, preventing sticking and making cleanup even easier.

Having these ingredients and tools ready will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience, leading to a truly satisfying Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe that your family will adore.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

Creating this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is an exercise in simplicity and patience, with the slow cooker doing most of the work. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly tender and flavorful meal.

1. Prepare the Crock Pot: First, ensure your slow cooker is ready for action. Lightly grease the inside of your 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil. This crucial step helps prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom and sides, especially during the long cooking periods, and makes cleanup significantly easier. A non-stick surface is your friend here, ensuring your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice lifts out smoothly.
2. Layer the Chicken: Carefully place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs evenly at the bottom of the prepared slow cooker. Arrange the chicken in a single layer if possible, to ensure even cooking. This initial layer forms the foundation of your dish, and the chicken will release its natural juices, contributing to the overall flavor of the broth.
3. Add Vegetables: Scatter the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery directly over the top of the chicken pieces in the slow cooker. These aromatic vegetables will soften beautifully during cooking, infusing the chicken and liquid with their sweet and savory notes. Don’t worry about precise placement; a good, even distribution is sufficient. This combination of vegetables is classic for a reason, providing depth and wholesomeness to your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe.
4. Combine Liquids and Seasonings: In a medium bowl, whisk together the can of cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup) with the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy base is what will envelop your chicken and rice, creating that signature comforting texture. Ensure there are no lumps from the soup concentrate. Once smooth, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. These seasonings are vital for building a rich flavor profile.
5. Pour Over Ingredients: Carefully pour the liquid mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Make sure all ingredients are well covered by the liquid. This ensures that the chicken cooks through thoroughly and absorbs all the wonderful flavors. The vegetables will also simmer in this liquid, becoming tender and flavorful.
6. Initial Cooking: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on LOW setting for 3 to 4 hours, or on HIGH setting for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds. The exact cooking time can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker and the thickness of your chicken. Always ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety. This initial cooking phase is crucial for tenderizing the chicken before the rice is added.
7. Shred Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should be incredibly tender and easy to pull apart. Shredding the chicken ensures that every spoonful of your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe has a good mix of chicken, rice, and vegetables. Set the shredded chicken aside temporarily.
8. Add Rice: Stir the uncooked long-grain white rice directly into the liquid and vegetable mixture remaining in the slow cooker. It is absolutely essential that the rice is fully submerged in the liquid. If it’s not, it won’t cook properly and might end up crunchy. Give it a good stir to ensure even distribution. Do not add the rice at the beginning, as it would become mushy and overcooked during the long initial chicken cooking time.
9. Return Chicken: Add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker, gently stirring it in with the rice and liquid mixture. This ensures the chicken reheats and melds its flavors with the rice as it cooks.
10. Final Cooking: Re-cover the slow cooker. Continue to cook on HIGH setting for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Keep an eye on it during this stage; you want the rice to be cooked but not mushy. If the mixture appears too thick or dry, you can add a small amount of additional chicken broth (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup) during this stage to achieve your desired consistency. This fine-tuning ensures a creamy, perfectly cooked Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe.
11. Add Peas (Optional): During the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen green peas (if using). Adding them at this late stage allows them to heat through without becoming mushy or losing their vibrant color. They add a lovely burst of freshness and a touch of sweetness.
12. Rest and Serve: Once the rice is tender, turn off the slow cooker and let the chicken and rice rest, covered, for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period is crucial! It allows the flavors to meld further and the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid, resulting in a creamier, more cohesive texture.
13. Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle the Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and fresh herbaceousness, and serve warm. Enjoy this hearty and comforting meal!

Tips, Tricks, and Variations for Your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

While the classic Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is a comforting masterpiece on its own, there’s plenty of room to personalize it and elevate your slow cooker game. These tips, tricks, and variations will help you tailor the dish to your preferences, avoid common pitfalls, and even cater to different dietary needs.

Ingredient Alternatives & Flavor Twists:

• Chicken Choices: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are recommended, you can absolutely use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for richer flavor. Just be sure to remove the skin and bones before shredding the chicken in step 7. For a different protein, consider adding pre-cooked sausage or even turkey, though cooking times may vary slightly.
• Soup Variations: Experiment with different “cream of” soups! Cream of celery or even cheddar cheese soup can offer unique flavor profiles for your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe. For a healthier or dairy-free alternative, consider making your own cream sauce with flour, butter (or oil), and broth/milk, or using a dairy-free cream soup alternative.
• Vegetable Medley: Get creative with your veggies! Diced bell peppers, corn (canned or frozen), mushrooms, or even spinach (stirred in during the last 10-15 minutes) would be delicious additions. For a boost of green, consider adding a handful of chopped fresh kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the liquid mixture. Smoked paprika can also add a delightful depth and warmth.
• Herb Enhancements: Beyond thyme, try adding dried rosemary, bay leaf (remove before serving), or an Italian seasoning blend to the liquid. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can be stirred in with the parsley at the very end for an extra layer of freshness.
• Cheese Please! For an even creamier, richer Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe, stir in 1/2 to 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese during the last 10 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt into the hot rice mixture.

Avoiding Common Mistakes:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: While it’s tempting to double the recipe, ensure your slow cooker isn’t packed too tightly. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and can extend cooking times significantly.
• The Rice Stage is Key: Never add the rice at the very beginning of the cooking process! Long-grain white rice needs a specific cooking window (around 45 minutes to an hour on HIGH in a hot slow cooker). Adding it too early will result in mushy, overcooked rice.
• Check for Liquid: Before adding the rice, quickly assess the liquid level. If it seems insufficient, add an extra 1/4 to 1/2 cup of chicken broth. The rice needs enough liquid to fully absorb and cook properly.
• Resist the Urge to Peek: Opening the slow cooker lid frequently releases heat and extends cooking time. Only lift the lid when instructed or when you need to add ingredients.
• Adjust Seasoning at the End: Different brands of broth and soup contain varying amounts of sodium. It’s always best to taste and adjust the salt and pepper levels at the very end, just before serving.
• Resting Period Matters: Don’t skip the 5-10 minute resting time after cooking. This allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining liquid and the flavors to meld, resulting in a perfectly creamy consistency.

Dietary Adaptations:

• Gluten-Free: This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe can easily be made gluten-free. Ensure your chicken broth and cream of chicken soup are certified gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions of these staples.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cream of chicken/mushroom soup alternative or make a homemade dairy-free cream sauce using plant-based milk and flour/cornstarch.

With these tips and variations, your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe will not only be consistently delicious but also adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand or dietary needs you need to accommodate. Enjoy the flexibility and ease of this fantastic slow cooker meal!

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

The Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe isn’t just a beacon of comfort and convenience; it’s also a surprisingly nutritious meal that offers a range of benefits. While precise nutritional values can vary based on exact portion sizes, specific brands of ingredients (e.g., low-sodium broth, full-fat vs. reduced-fat soup), and whether you use chicken breasts or thighs, we can certainly outline the general nutritional profile and the benefits each core ingredient brings to your plate.

General Nutritional Profile (per serving, estimated):

• Calories: A single serving is typically around 400-550 calories, making it a hearty and satisfying main course. This can be adjusted by opting for leaner chicken cuts or serving smaller portions.
• Protein: This dish is an excellent source of protein, with estimates often ranging from 30-40 grams per serving, primarily from the chicken. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, satiety, and overall body function.
• Carbohydrates: Primarily from the long-grain white rice, a serving typically contains 40-60 grams of carbohydrates. These provide essential energy for your body’s daily activities.
• Fats: The fat content will vary depending on whether you use chicken breasts (leaner) or thighs (higher fat), and the type of cream soup. It generally falls in the range of 10-20 grams, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.
• Fiber: While not exceptionally high, the vegetables (carrots, celery, peas, onion) contribute dietary fiber, important for digestive health and maintaining blood sugar levels.
• Sodium: Due to the canned soup and broth, the sodium content can be a consideration. Opting for low-sodium chicken broth and watching your added salt can help manage this.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables contribute various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A from carrots, Vitamin C from peas, and various B vitamins from the chicken and rice.

Benefits of Key Ingredients:

• Chicken: As the primary protein source in this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe, chicken (especially boneless, skinless breasts) is a lean protein powerhouse. Protein is vital for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and is a key component of muscles, bones, skin, and blood. It also contributes significantly to feelings of fullness, helping with weight management.
• Rice (Long-Grain White): Rice provides readily available complex carbohydrates, which are the body’s preferred source of energy. It’s a gluten-free grain that offers sustained energy release, making you feel satisfied and fueled. While white rice is refined, it’s a good source of B vitamins (especially if enriched) which are important for metabolism.
• Carrots: These vibrant vegetables are packed with beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for good vision, immune function, and skin health. Carrots also provide fiber and antioxidants.
• Celery: Low in calories, celery is a good source of dietary fiber, Vitamin K, and folate. It adds a subtle savory note and contributes to the overall vegetable content of your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe.
• Onions: Onions contribute powerful antioxidants and various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C and B vitamins. They are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and add a foundational savory flavor to almost any dish.
• Green Peas: If you choose to include them, frozen green peas are a small but mighty addition. They are a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and several vitamins (including Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and B vitamins) and minerals (like manganese and iron). They add a fresh burst of flavor and color.
• Herbs and Spices (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Thyme, Black Pepper): While contributing minimally to caloric intake, these seasonings are rich in antioxidants and various compounds that can offer health benefits, from anti-inflammatory properties to supporting digestive health. They elevate the flavor of your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe without adding unhealthy fats or excess sugars.

In summary, this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe offers a balanced and wholesome meal option that fits well into a healthy eating plan. It provides essential macronutrients for energy and body function, along with a good array of vitamins and minerals from its fresh ingredients. Its convenience means you’re more likely to prepare a home-cooked meal, further contributing to a healthier lifestyle compared to relying on less nutritious takeout options. For more delicious and wholesome recipes, consider exploring options like this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken or a comforting Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole.

Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe FAQs

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe Awaits

You’ve now explored the complete guide to mastering the Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe, a dish that stands as a testament to the power of simple ingredients and the magic of slow cooking. We’ve delved into why this recipe is a beloved choice for its unmatched convenience, minimal cleanup, and comforting flavors. From the foundational layering of tender chicken and vibrant vegetables to the perfect timing for adding your rice, every step is designed to ensure success, even for the busiest home cooks.

Remember the key takeaways: the initial slow cook tenderizes the chicken to perfection, setting the stage for the rice to be added later, ensuring a creamy, not mushy, texture. The blend of cream of chicken soup, savory broth, and a medley of seasonings creates a rich, cohesive sauce that binds all the elements together. And with our tips and variations, you’re empowered to customize this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe to suit your family’s tastes, making it a truly versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you prefer extra veggies, a hint of spice, or a different type of chicken, this recipe provides a robust framework for endless delicious possibilities.

Beyond its incredible taste and ease, this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe also offers significant nutritional benefits, providing a balanced meal packed with protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins from wholesome ingredients. It’s a complete meal in one pot, designed to nourish and satisfy without any added stress. This makes it an ideal solution for weeknight dinners, meal prepping for the days ahead, or simply enjoying a cozy meal with loved ones.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and experience the unparalleled comfort and ease of this fantastic Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe. We encourage you to try it tonight and discover why it’s poised to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below – we love hearing about your culinary adventures! And if you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our other comforting recipes, like this delightful Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole, or explore exciting new flavors like the ones found on our Pinterest. Happy cooking!

Creamy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice: An Easy One-Pot Meal

This comforting Crock Pot Chicken and Rice recipe offers a hearty, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy vegetable sauce, it's a family-friendly favorite made effortlessly in your slow cooker.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 6 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• 6-Quart Slow Cooker
• Medium Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 large onion chopped
• 2 carrots peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks diced
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounce) or cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice uncooked
• 1 cup frozen green peas optional
• Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Lightly grease the inside of your 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.
• Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs evenly at the bottom of the prepared slow cooker.
• Scatter the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery over the top of the chicken pieces in the slow cooker.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the can of cream of chicken soup with the chicken broth until smooth and well combined. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt.
• Carefully pour the liquid mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Ensure all ingredients are well covered by the liquid.
• Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on LOW setting for 3 to 4 hours, or on HIGH setting for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
• Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
• Stir the uncooked long-grain white rice directly into the liquid and vegetable mixture in the slow cooker. Make sure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid.
• Add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker, gently stirring it in with the rice and liquid mixture.
• Re-cover the slow cooker. Continue to cook on HIGH setting for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If the mixture appears too thick or dry, you can add a small amount of additional chicken broth (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup) during this stage.
• During the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen green peas (if using). This allows them to heat through without becoming mushy.
• Once the rice is tender, turn off the slow cooker and let the chicken and rice rest, covered, for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid, resulting in a creamier texture.
• Ladle the Crock Pot Chicken and Rice into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can lightly brown the chicken pieces in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Feel free to adjust seasonings to your preference, and consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Keyword chicken, creamy, crock pot, easy, family-friendly, one-pot, rice, slow cooker