Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

Name: Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this creamy chicken and rice dish, perfectly cooked in your slow cooker.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:10:03.655Z

This creamy slow cooker chicken and rice dish is a family favorite, bringing warmth and comfort to your dinner table. With tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, it's an effortless meal that will impress everyone!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and rich flavor that satisfies the soul
Perfectly cooked chicken that's tender and juicy
Minimal prep time for busy weeknights

      

Slow Cooker Convenience

Slow cookers have revolutionized meal preparation, making it easier for busy individuals and families to enjoy home-cooked meals without the hassle of constant supervision. This creamy chicken and rice dish exemplifies the beauty of slow cooking, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully over time. Just set it and forget it, and you'll be rewarded with a delicious meal that requires minimal effort.

Not only does the slow cooker save time, but it also helps retain the moisture in the chicken, resulting in tender, juicy pieces that are bursting with flavor. The rice absorbs the creamy sauce, creating a comforting dish that's perfect for any day of the week. This recipe is an excellent choice for those looking to simplify weeknight dinners while still enjoying a hearty, satisfying meal.

A Family-Friendly Meal

One of the standout features of this creamy slow cooker chicken and rice is its appeal to all ages. The mild flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with children, while adults will appreciate the depth of flavor and the ease of preparation. It's a great way to introduce kids to new ingredients like thyme and garlic, without overwhelming their palates.

Additionally, this dish is highly customizable. You can swap in different vegetables based on your family's preferences or even use brown rice for a healthier twist. The flexibility of this recipe ensures that it can cater to various dietary needs and tastes, making it a fantastic option for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This creamy chicken and rice dish is not only delicious but also ideal for meal prepping. By making a larger batch, you can have several days' worth of meals ready to go. Simply portion out the leftovers into containers, and you have quick lunches or dinners at your fingertips. Just reheat and enjoy for a hassle-free meal that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Meal prepping with this recipe also allows you to save time and money. By planning ahead and cooking in bulk, you're less likely to resort to takeout or fast food, which can be costly and less nutritious. Plus, the rich, creamy flavor of this dish makes it something you'll look forward to eating throughout the week.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to gather everything before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Add Chicken and Rice

Layer the chicken breasts over the onions, then add the rice evenly on top.

Mix the Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken and rice.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Add Vegetables

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas and carrots to the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine.

Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir everything together before serving.

Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired!

Tips for Success

To ensure the best flavor in your creamy slow cooker chicken and rice, be sure to season your chicken generously with salt and pepper before layering it in the slow cooker. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish as it cooks. Additionally, feel free to experiment with herbs and spices—adding a touch of paprika or rosemary can elevate the flavors even further.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, if you find the mixture too thick, adding a splash of chicken broth towards the end can help achieve your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken and rice dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to add a refreshing crunch. A light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the main dish without overpowering it. For an added touch, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

For those looking to amp up the flavors even more, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can provide a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the dish. These small additions can make a notable difference in enhancing the overall dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time by about an hour.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this chicken and rice dish?

A simple side salad or steamed vegetables would complement this dish nicely.