Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. With tender chicken and creamy rice, it's a dish the whole family will love.
This recipe combines the ease of a slow cooker with the comfort of creamy chicken and rice. Perfect for family dinners!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy flavor that comforts the soul
- Minimal prep time for a delicious meal
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
A Simple Solution for Busy Nights
After a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe is designed to be a simple solution for those hectic weeknights when you need a nourishing meal without the fuss. Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. By the time you’re ready to eat, a warm, comforting dish awaits you.
One of the best parts about this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether you prefer a bit of heat with some red pepper flakes or a fresh twist with herbs like thyme or rosemary, this dish allows you to get creative with minimal effort. The slow cooker ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully, making it a versatile option for your family's taste preferences.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken and Rice
Chicken and rice is not just comfort food; it's also a balanced meal that can provide essential nutrients. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle health and overall body function. Pairing it with rice gives you carbohydrates for energy, making this dish perfect for active families. The addition of peas and carrots not only enhances the flavor but also contributes fiber and various vitamins, making it a wholesome choice for dinner.
Moreover, using whole grain rice instead of white rice can further boost the nutritional profile of this dish. Whole grains offer additional fiber and nutrients, which can aid in digestion and help keep you feeling fuller longer. With a few simple tweaks, you can make this creamy dish even healthier while still keeping it delicious and satisfying.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Meal prepping can be a lifesaver for busy individuals and families, and this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe is perfect for that purpose. You can easily double the ingredients and portion out meals for the week. It stores well in the fridge for up to four days and can also be frozen for longer storage. Just make sure to let it cool before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing.
When reheating, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice moist, and heat it in the microwave or on the stove. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal even on the busiest of days. Plus, having ready-to-eat meals means less temptation to order takeout, making it an excellent choice for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 4 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
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a slow cooker, combine the diced onion, minced garlic, chicken breasts, rice, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Add Vegetables
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas and carrots.
Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix everything well before serving.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly, be mindful of your slow cooker’s temperature settings. If you have a newer model, it might cook faster than older versions. Always check the chicken for doneness around the 5-hour mark to avoid overcooking. A meat thermometer can be helpful; you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Additionally, for extra creaminess, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream right before serving. This will elevate the dish and add a luxurious texture that your family will love.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and crunch to your meal. You can also serve it with some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce, making for a truly indulgent dining experience.
For a bit of flair, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile, making it visually appealing and even more delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but be aware that brown rice has a longer cooking time. If you choose to use brown rice, you may need to extend the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
Can I make this dish in advance? Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day ahead and let the flavors meld in the fridge overnight before cooking it in the slow cooker the next day.
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 freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for freezing.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
→ Can I make this recipe with other proteins?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. With tender chicken and creamy rice, it's a dish the whole family will love.
Created by: Phoebe Turner
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
- 4 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
How-To Steps
In a slow cooker, combine the diced onion, minced garlic, chicken breasts, rice, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas and carrots.
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix everything well before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 55g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g