Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

Name: Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a comforting bowl of creamy slow cooker chicken and rice, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-28T14:34:13.554Z

This creamy slow cooker chicken and rice recipe is a family favorite. It's easy to prepare and delivers rich flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts the soul
Minimal prep time for maximum flavor
Perfectly cooked chicken that falls apart
One-pot meal for easy cleanup

      

A Comforting Classic

Creamy slow cooker chicken and rice is more than just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl. As the chicken simmers in the slow cooker, it absorbs all the flavors from the broth and seasonings, creating a dish that is bursting with taste. The rice, cooked to perfection, becomes wonderfully creamy, complementing the tender chicken. This recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

It’s a dish that appeals to all ages, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The combination of chicken, rice, and vegetables provides a well-rounded meal, ensuring you get the nutrients you need while enjoying a comforting experience. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use pantry staples and leftover chicken, reducing food waste while saving you money.

Effortless Cooking

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal prep time, you can have everything ready to go in just a few minutes. Simply chop the onion and garlic, layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want a delicious home-cooked meal without the hassle of extensive cooking.

The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that tastes like you've been slaving over the stove for hours. As the chicken cooks, it becomes incredibly tender and easy to shred, ensuring that every bite is delightful. This is a meal that truly delivers on both flavor and convenience.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or simply looking for an easy family dinner, creamy slow cooker chicken and rice fits the bill perfectly. It’s a one-pot wonder that simplifies your cooking and cleaning process, allowing you to focus on what really matters—spending time with loved ones. Serve it with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that will please everyone at the table.

Leftovers are another bonus! This dish stores well in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prep or lunch the next day. Just reheat, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go, saving you time and effort during your busy week.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In the slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, and the frozen peas and carrots.

Add Chicken and Rice

Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables, then sprinkle the rice evenly over the top.

Add Liquids and Seasoning

Pour chicken broth and heavy cream over the chicken and rice. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.

Cook in Slow Cooker

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

Shred Chicken and Serve

Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir everything together before serving.

Enjoy your creamy slow cooker chicken and rice with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired!

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the best texture and flavor, use high-quality chicken breasts and fresh ingredients. Frozen peas and carrots work wonderfully, but feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or green beans for extra nutrition and color. Additionally, adjusting the seasoning to your taste can elevate the dish—consider adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving for an extra kick.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider adding a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Mix equal parts cornstarch and water, then stir it into the slow cooker. This will give your dish a creamy, luscious consistency that coats the chicken and rice beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken and rice dish is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to enhance your meal. Serve it with a side of garlic bread to soak up the rich sauce or pair it with a light, crisp salad to balance the creaminess. For a more robust flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving.

For those who enjoy a little extra kick, adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can take this comforting dish to the next level. Don't hesitate to experiment with different toppings; the possibilities are endless, and they can make each serving feel unique and special.

Storing and Reheating

To store leftovers, let the creamy chicken and rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in individual containers, where it can last for up to three months.

When reheating, it’s best to do so slowly to maintain the creamy texture. You can use the microwave or stovetop—just add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it from drying out. Stir well and heat until just warmed through, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy again!

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 use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just ensure they are cooked thoroughly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and rice.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.