Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Lora Lopez

Posted on October 20, 2025

Are you searching for a hearty meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further than this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy mushroom soup, and perfectly cooked rice, all simmered together in your trusty slow cooker. It’s the ultimate comfort food that can easily be prepared in the morning and enjoyed with family at dinner time. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that will warm your heart and fill your belly.

This recipe is perfect for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or any occasion when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you! Just set it and forget it while the slow cooker works its magic, infusing all the ingredients with rich flavors. With the added bonus of frozen mixed vegetables, you’re not only getting a delicious meal but also a nutritious one that’s great for the entire family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why you will fall in love with this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole. Here are some highlights that make this dish a must-try:

Effortless Cooking: This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. Simply layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, set it, and let it do the work!
Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser! Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and delightful flavors.
Versatile Ingredients: You can customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, making it adaptable to any palate.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the vegetables, this casserole is not just filling but also good for you.
Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and tender chicken wrapped in rice are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings.

Furthermore, this dish can easily feed a crowd or provide ample leftovers for lunch the next day. It’s a great option for meal prep, as you can portion it out for the week ahead. The addition of cheese, while optional, takes it to another level of deliciousness, making every bite creamy and cheesy.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you’re still on the fence about making this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole, consider these compelling reasons:

Time-Saver: Between work, family commitments, and other responsibilities, we all could use a little more time. This slow cooker recipe lets you prepare dinner with just a few minutes of work.
Minimal Cleanup: With only one pot to clean, you can enjoy your meal without worrying about a mountain of dishes afterward.
Budget-Friendly: Using everyday ingredients, this casserole is cost-effective and won’t break the bank. Plus, buying in bulk can save you even more.
Make Ahead: This dish is perfect for freezer meals. You can prep it ahead of time and store it in the freezer for a quick meal later.
Flavorful and Satisfying: This casserole is loaded with flavor. The combination of chicken and vegetables, melded together with a creamy sauce, is a flavor party in your mouth!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup cream of mushroom soup
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Recommended Tools

Slow Cooker
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Mixing Bowl
Cutting Board
Sharp Knife
Two Forks (for shredding chicken)

Having the right tools can make a significant difference in your cooking experience, so make sure to gather these items before you start! If you want to explore more delicious chicken recipes, check out these teriyaki chicken strips or honey garlic chicken tenders.

Detailed Recipe Steps

Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. This will serve as the base for your casserole and ensure the chicken cooks evenly.
Add Rice: Sprinkle the uncooked long-grain white rice evenly over the chicken. This will absorb the flavors and moisture during cooking.
Mix the Liquids: In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until well mixed to create a creamy base for the casserole.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the broth mixture over the rice and chicken in the slow cooker. Ensure the rice is fully covered for even cooking.
Add Vegetables: Scatter the frozen mixed vegetables, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. This adds flavor and nutrition to your casserole.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. This will make it easier to mix into the casserole.
Mix Everything Together: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine all the ingredients well.
Add Cheese (Optional): If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Let it melt for 5-10 minutes with the slow cooker set to warm.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy your creamy chicken and rice casserole!

Cooking tips to enhance your casserole:

Always check the slow cooker’s settings. If you have a newer model, it might cook faster than older ones, so adjust the cooking time as needed.
Feel free to swap out the vegetables with your favorites, such as spinach or broccoli, for a different taste or texture.
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices the night before.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in the Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to increase the cooking time by about an hour. Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice, so adjust your slow cooker settings accordingly.

Can I prepare the Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole the night before?

Absolutely! You can layer all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to take it out in the morning to let it reach room temperature before cooking.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole?

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a fresh contrast to the creamy dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free chicken broth and ensuring the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free. Always check the labels to be sure.

Conclusion

In summary, the Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a fantastic dish that saves time and effort while delivering incredible flavor and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving some cozy food, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Don’t hesitate to try it out, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends and family or try making it yourself today!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Teriyaki Chicken Skewers or Honey Sriracha Chicken Bites.