Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy the rich flavors of Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice, a comforting dish that comes together effortlessly in your slow cooker.
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is perfect for busy weeknights. The slow cooker does all the work while you enjoy the delicious aromas filling your home!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that's comforting and satisfying
- Minimal prep time for maximum flavor
- Great for meal prepping or feeding a family
Satisfying Comfort Food
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice creates a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach. It's perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something hearty. This recipe not only delivers on flavor but also on the soothing sensation that only a well-cooked meal can provide. Each bite is a delightful reminder of home-cooked goodness.
What sets this dish apart is its ability to cater to various tastes. Whether you're an adventurous eater or someone who prefers classic flavors, the creamy texture and seasoned chicken offer something for everyone. Plus, the added veggies make it a balanced meal that’s pleasing to both kids and adults alike.
Effortless Cooking Experience
One of the greatest advantages of using a slow cooker is the minimal prep time involved. With just a few minutes spent searing the chicken and tossing ingredients into the slow cooker, you can set it and forget it. This hands-off approach allows you to attend to other tasks or simply relax while your meal cooks to perfection. It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights or when hosting friends and family.
Additionally, the slow cooking process enhances the flavors of each ingredient, resulting in a rich, cohesive dish. The hours spent simmering allow the chicken to soak up the savory broth and meld beautifully with the rice and vegetables. You’ll love how easy it is to create a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can easily scale the recipe to feed a crowd or make several servings to enjoy throughout the week. Once cooked, the dish stores well in the refrigerator and reheats beautifully, making it a convenient option for lunches or quick dinners.
To make meal prepping even easier, consider portioning the chicken and rice into individual containers. This way, you can grab a meal on the go or heat it up at your convenience. The creamy texture remains intact, ensuring that every serving is just as delicious as the first. It’s a practical solution for anyone looking to streamline their weekly meals without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 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 paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Make sure to gather all ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then transfer to the slow cooker.
Combine Ingredients
In the slow cooker, add the rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, diced onions, minced garlic, and frozen peas and carrots. Stir to combine.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the rice. Serve hot and enjoy!
Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure to season your chicken adequately before searing. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to create a delicious crust that locks in moisture. Don't skip the paprika; it adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish.
If you prefer brown rice over white, you can substitute it in this recipe, but be aware that it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust your liquid ratios and cooking duration accordingly to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a simple side salad for a complete meal that balances the richness of the chicken and rice. A light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the creamy flavors of the main dish.
For those who enjoy a little extra crunch, consider topping your creamy chicken and rice with toasted nuts or crispy fried onions. These toppings not only add texture but also introduce a new layer of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or warm everything in a pot on the stove. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help restore moisture during reheating.
If you find yourself with more than you can eat, this dish also freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and add additional liquid.
→ Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free alternative.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Enjoy the rich flavors of Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice, a comforting dish that comes together effortlessly in your slow cooker.
Created by: Marley Quinn
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
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 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 paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then transfer to the slow cooker.
In the slow cooker, add the rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, diced onions, minced garlic, and frozen peas and carrots. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the rice. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g