Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting and delicious dish that brings warmth to any table. This recipe combines tender chicken with creamy rice, making it a perfect family meal.
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights, it allows you to come home to a warm, delightful dinner without the hassle of cooking after a long day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that satisfies your cravings
- Minimal prep time, perfect for busy schedules
- One-pot meal makes cleanup a breeze
- Flavorful chicken that falls apart with a fork
The Perfect Comfort Food
There's nothing quite like a warm, comforting meal after a long day, and Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice fits the bill perfectly. This dish combines the heartiness of chicken with the creamy texture of rice, creating a satisfying experience that warms you from the inside out. Not only is it delicious, but it also evokes the feeling of home with every bite, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to customize it to your family's tastes. You can easily add your favorite vegetables or swap the chicken for another protein. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to spend quality time with loved ones while the meal cooks to perfection.
Effortless Meal Prep
One of the standout features of Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is its minimal prep time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have everything ready in under 15 minutes. Simply season the chicken, add the rice and other ingredients, and let the slow cooker do the rest. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without the fuss.
Moreover, the one-pot nature of this recipe means that cleanup is a breeze. You won’t have multiple pots and pans to wash afterward, making it a practical choice for those who dislike doing dishes. Just serve directly from the slow cooker for a stress-free dining experience.
A Family Favorite
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings families together. The rich flavors and comforting textures appeal to both kids and adults alike, making it a surefire hit at the dinner table. Plus, the simplicity of the dish means that even the pickiest eaters are likely to clean their plates.
As the chicken cooks, it becomes tender and infused with the savory flavors of the broth and spices, creating a dish that is not only filling but also deeply satisfying. The addition of peas and carrots adds a pop of color and nutrition, making it a well-rounded meal that your family will love.
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 peas and carrots
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Mix these ingredients together for a delicious meal!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the Rice and Soup
Pour the rice over the chicken, followed by the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine.
Cook the Dish
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas and carrots.
Finish and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve warm.
Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly, it's important to use long-grain white rice, as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well. Avoid using quick-cooking rice, as it may become mushy in the slow cooker. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different seasonings to suit your palate; herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a delightful twist.
If you're looking to make this dish healthier, consider using brown rice instead of white. While it may require a longer cooking time, it adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the meal. Just be sure to adjust the liquid ratios accordingly, as brown rice absorbs more liquid than white.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but there are plenty of sides that can complement it beautifully. A crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken and rice. Alternatively, steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables make for excellent accompaniments, adding even more nutrients and flavor to your meal.
For a little extra indulgence, you can serve this dish with warm, crusty bread. The bread can be used to soak up the creamy sauce, adding another layer of satisfaction to the dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or at a family gathering, Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, you can easily store Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy weeks. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore the creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in portions. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?
You can, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid.
→ Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and cook it in the morning.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting and delicious dish that brings warmth to any table. This recipe combines tender chicken with creamy rice, making it a perfect family meal.
Created by: Phoebe Turner
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 peas and carrots
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the rice over the chicken, followed by the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas and carrots.
Once the cooking time is up, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g