Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy rice, making it perfect for family dinners.
This creamy chicken and rice dish is made in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. It's a family favorite for its simplicity and delicious taste!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that comforts the soul
- One-pot convenience for easy cleanup
- Perfectly seasoned chicken that melts in your mouth
The Perfect Family Meal
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal; it's a comforting dish that brings the family together. The rich, creamy texture of the dish makes it a favorite among kids and adults alike. With its hearty ingredients and delicious flavors, it's an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want to serve something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
This dish not only pleases the taste buds but also provides a sense of warmth and comfort that can be hard to find in today's fast-paced world. Picture gathering around the dinner table to enjoy a warm, homemade meal that everyone will love. It's the perfect way to create lasting memories with your family.
Slow Cooking Benefits
One of the greatest advantages of using a slow cooker is the convenience it offers. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set your ingredients to cook and let the slow cooker do the rest. This method allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that's rich and full of depth. You can get on with your day while your meal is gently simmering away.
Moreover, slow cooking helps maintain the moisture in the chicken, ensuring that it stays tender and juicy. The long, slow cooking process allows the spices and ingredients to infuse deeply, making every bite delicious. It's an effortless way to create mouthwatering meals with minimal fuss.
Customizing Your Dish
One of the best aspects of this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using brown rice for a healthier twist. Experimenting with different spices or adding a splash of lemon juice can also elevate the dish's flavor profile.
If you have any leftovers, don’t worry! This recipe stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated for a quick lunch or dinner. Feel free to add a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that satisfies your cravings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.
Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Add Rice and Vegetables
Sprinkle the rice over the chicken, followed by the diced onion, garlic, and frozen peas and carrots.
Mix the Liquids
In a separate bowl, combine chicken broth and cream of chicken soup until smooth. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
Serve
Once done, shred the chicken with two forks and stir everything together. Serve warm and enjoy!
Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch!
Storing and Reheating
To store your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Portion out the dish into freezer-safe containers and it will last up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the rice has absorbed too much liquid during storage, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore its creamy consistency while reheating.
Pairing Suggestions
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Alternatively, some garlic bread or dinner rolls can be perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
For a touch of brightness, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a simple sauté of seasonal greens. These pairings not only complement the flavors but also add a nutritious element to your meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, or green beans work great in this recipe.
→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Just reheat when ready to eat.
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy rice, making it perfect for family dinners.
Created by: Marley Quinn
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Sprinkle the rice over the chicken, followed by the diced onion, garlic, and frozen peas and carrots.
In a separate bowl, combine chicken broth and cream of chicken soup until smooth. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
Once done, shred the chicken with two forks and stir everything together. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 56g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g