Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken with creamy rice for a meal that the whole family will love.
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice dish is a family favorite. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Serve it with a side of vegetables for a complete meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
- Perfectly seasoned chicken that falls apart with a fork
A Comforting Family Favorite
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl. This dish combines the rich flavors of tender chicken and creamy rice, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken with savory goodness, while the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors, creating a dish that's both hearty and satisfying.
What makes this recipe even more appealing is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your family's preferences by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether you're feeding picky eaters or adventurous palates, this dish has something for everyone, ensuring that dinner is a delightful experience.
Effortless Meal Preparation
One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal preparation and just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious meal cooking away while you go about your day. Simply layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, set the timer, and let the appliance do all the work. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without the hassle.
Additionally, the cleanup is a breeze. Most of the cooking is done in one pot, meaning fewer dishes and more time spent with your loved ones. This effortless approach to meal preparation allows you to focus on what truly matters—creating memories around the dinner table.
Perfectly Seasoned Goodness
The seasoning in this creamy chicken and rice dish is key to its delicious flavor profile. The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper enhances the natural taste of the chicken, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. The addition of cheddar cheese at the end adds a rich, creamy finish that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
Moreover, the use of frozen mixed vegetables not only adds color and nutrition but also saves you prep time. This thoughtful inclusion means you can enjoy the benefits of fresh produce without the hassle of chopping and cooking them separately. It's a win-win for health and convenience!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the Ingredients
Pour the rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and frozen vegetables over the chicken. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Add Cheese
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt into the dish.
Serve
Once done, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix well. Serve warm and enjoy!
Make sure to taste before serving to adjust the seasoning if needed!
Tips for Customization
Feel free to customize your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice to match your family's taste preferences. If you love a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mix. Alternatively, you can swap out the cheddar cheese for a different variety, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, to create a different flavor experience.
You can also experiment with different types of rice. While long-grain white rice works beautifully in this recipe, brown rice or even quinoa can be used for a healthier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different grains may require different cooking durations.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers from this creamy chicken and rice dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty lunch or dinner without the extra cooking during the week.
When it comes to reheating, simply place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the dish appears a bit dry, add a splash of chicken broth to restore its creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
To round out your meal, consider serving a simple side salad or some crusty bread alongside your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the main dish, while bread can be perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
For a truly comforting experience, pair this dish with a warm dessert, such as apple crisp or chocolate lava cake. The combination of savory and sweet will leave your guests satisfied and happy after a delightful meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
→ Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken with creamy rice for a meal that the whole family will love.
Created by: Natalie Briggs
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Pour the rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and frozen vegetables over the chicken. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt into the dish.
Once done, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix well. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g