Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that practically cooks itself! Tender chicken, creamy rice, and a medley of flavors come together in this satisfying meal.
This recipe for Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken breasts with creamy rice and a blend of delicious seasonings, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Just set it and forget it!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
- Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
- Perfect for family dinners or meal prep
- Packed with flavor and nutrients
A Convenient Cooking Method
Using a slow cooker is one of the most convenient ways to prepare a meal. Simply toss all your ingredients into the pot, set the timer, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. This method not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. Plus, the hands-off cooking style means minimal oversight is needed, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Slow cooking also helps retain the moisture in the chicken, ensuring it comes out tender and juicy every time. By the time dinner rolls around, you’ll have a delightful meal waiting for you, requiring little more than a quick stir before serving. This recipe is perfect for those who want hearty comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.
Nutritious and Flavorful
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. The addition of frozen mixed vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal. You can easily customize the veggies based on your preference, adding spinach, peas, or even bell peppers for added color and nutrition. This flexibility allows you to cater the dish to your family’s tastes while ensuring they get a healthy dose of greens.
The combination of chicken and rice creates a balanced meal that is satisfying and filling. The creamy sauce, made from cream of chicken soup and broth, adds a comforting element that enhances the overall flavor profile. This dish is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition without sacrificing taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking for a meal that’s perfect for meal prepping, this recipe is an excellent choice. It can easily serve a crowd or provide several portions for the week ahead. Simply prepare a larger batch and divide it into individual containers for quick lunches or dinners on busy days. The flavors often improve after a day in the fridge, making leftovers something to look forward to.
Additionally, because this dish holds up well when reheated, you won’t be left with dry or unappetizing meals. Just pop it in the microwave for a few minutes, and you’ll have a comforting, home-cooked meal ready to enjoy in no time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add Rice and Vegetables
Sprinkle the rice and frozen mixed vegetables over the chicken.
Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Combine Everything
Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and rice in the slow cooker.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Finish and Serve
If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving for an extra creamy touch.
Enjoy your meal with a side salad or some crusty bread!
Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken remains tender, avoid overcooking. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 165°F. If you find that the rice is still too firm after the recommended cooking time, you can add a little more chicken broth and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes. This will help achieve that perfect texture you desire.
Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to elevate the flavor. A sprinkle of thyme or rosemary adds a wonderful aroma, while a touch of paprika can bring a hint of warmth. Experimenting with seasonings can transform this dish into your very own signature recipe.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with various sides. A fresh garden salad or steamed green beans pairs wonderfully, adding a crisp contrast to the creamy dish. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.
For a bit of heat, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving. This little kick can awaken the flavors and add a new dimension to the meal, perfect for those who enjoy a spicy twist.
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 add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli.
→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and rice for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that practically cooks itself! Tender chicken, creamy rice, and a medley of flavors come together in this satisfying meal.
Created by: Marley Quinn
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
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Sprinkle the rice and frozen mixed vegetables over the chicken.
In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and rice in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving for an extra creamy touch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g