Hearty Crock Pot Chicken And Rice Recipe

Tender & Juicy Crock Pot Chicken And Rice Recipe to Savor

Slow-cooking magic happens when tender chicken meets perfectly seasoned rice in this crock pot chicken and rice recipe that promises comfort in every bite.

Families have cherished this simple yet delectable dish for generations.

Weeknight dinners become effortless with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

The aromatic blend of herbs and spices seeps into each grain of rice, creating a meal that warms both body and soul.

Juicy chicken falls apart with the gentlest touch, melding seamlessly with the creamy rice underneath.

You’ll savor each spoonful of this hearty, satisfying meal that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

This recipe guarantees a delicious dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 5-6 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Total Time: 6 hours

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 5

Crock Pot Chicken And Rice Ingredients

For Base Layer:
  • Uncooked Rice: Provides hearty foundation for the dish, select long-grain white rice for best texture and consistent cooking.
  • Chicken Broth: Creates rich moisture and flavor base, opt for low-sodium versions to control salt content.
For Seasoning Blend:
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Adds deep savory undertones, choose fresh ground spices for maximum flavor intensity.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers, use kosher salt for balanced seasoning and freshly ground black pepper.
  • Paprika: Introduces subtle warmth and beautiful color, select sweet or smoked variety based on preference.
For Protein and Creaminess:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean protein centerpiece, choose fresh boneless skinless cuts for easy shredding.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: Delivers creamy consistency and additional flavor complexity, select reduced-sodium version.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Introduces rich, tangy notes, select sharp cheddar for more pronounced taste.
  • Sour Cream: Adds luxurious creaminess and slight tanginess, full-fat version recommended for best texture.
Optional Additions:
  • Frozen Peas, Mixed Vegetables: Boost nutritional value and add vibrant color, select high-quality frozen vegetables.
  • Fresh Parsley: Provides bright finishing garnish, choose crisp, deeply green leaves.

Tools For Chicken And Rice Crock Pot Recipe

  • Crock Pot: Essential for slow cooking the entire meal, creating tender chicken and rice.
  • Measuring Cups: Perfect for accurately portioning rice, broth, and seasonings.
  • Measuring Spoons: Needed for precise amounts of garlic powder, salt, and other spices.
  • Mixing Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring ingredients and combining rice mixture.
  • Two Forks: Ideal for easily shredding cooked chicken.
  • Cheese Grater (optional): Helpful if using block cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded.

How To Make Chicken And Rice In Crock Pot

  • Prep the Slow Cooker

Grab your trusty crock pot and give it a quick spray with cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations.

  • Create the Flavor Base

Toss uncooked rice, chicken broth, and seasonings into the pot. Mix everything together to create a delicious foundation for your meal.

  • Nestle the Chicken

Gently place chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture, letting them sink slightly into the liquid.

  • Let the Magic Happen

Cover and let your crock pot work its wonder. Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is perfectly tender and cooked through.

  • Shred and Mix

Pull out the chicken and break it into soft, juicy pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the rice, stirring to combine all those amazing flavors.

  • Final Touches

Stir in some melted cheese and a dollop of sour cream to make the dish extra creamy. Toss in some frozen veggies for an extra nutrition boost if you’re feeling adventurous.

  • Serve with Love

Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top, grab a big spoon, and enjoy your comforting, home-cooked meal!

Tips To Elevate Chicken And Rice Crock Pot

  • Meal Prep Magic: Prepare the entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days, making busy weeknights a breeze.
  • Protein Power Switch: Replace chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs for richer flavor and more tender meat, perfect for those wanting extra juiciness.
  • Dairy-Free Delight: Swap dairy ingredients with coconut milk cream, dairy-free cheese alternatives, and plant-based sour cream to create a delicious lactose-free version.
  • Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper for a kick of heat that transforms the classic recipe into a zesty meal with deeper flavor complexity.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Substitute chicken with firm tofu, chickpeas, or mixed mushrooms to create a hearty plant-based version that maintains the creamy, comforting texture of the original dish.

Serving Chicken And Rice The Right Way

  • Family Dinner Hero: Serve this creamy chicken and rice directly in big bowls with extra cheese sprinkled on top for comfort food perfection.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Package individual portions in sealed containers for easy lunch options throughout the week, keeping the dish fresh and delicious.
  • Veggie Boost Brilliance: Add colorful roasted broccoli, crispy green beans, or a light garden salad on the side to increase nutritional value and create a balanced meal.
  • Flavor Enhancer Trick: Top with sliced green onions, crispy bacon bits, or a drizzle of hot sauce to give each serving a personalized flavor kick that makes everyone happy.

How To Keep Chicken And Rice Crock Pot Fresh

  • Smart Refrigeration Strategy: Store leftovers in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the dish fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Freezer-Friendly Option: Transfer cooled chicken and rice to freezer-safe containers, maintaining quality for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.
  • Reheating Magic: Warm portions in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture. Stir occasionally and heat until internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring food safety and preventing dryness.
  • Portion Control Technique: Divide meal into individual servings before refrigerating or freezing. This approach simplifies quick meals, reduces waste, and allows easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Hearty Crock Pot Chicken And Rice Recipe

Hearty Crock Pot Chicken And Rice Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 6 hours
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Hearty crock pot chicken and rice delights families with its comforting, one-pot meal simplicity. Southern-style cooking brings tender chicken and fluffy rice together, ensuring you’ll savor each satisfying spoonful.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 2.5 cups (590 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 can (10.5 oz/298 g) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
  • 2 tbsps fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Coat slow cooker with nonstick spray to prevent adhering and simplify cleanup.
  2. Base Creation: Whisk uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, paprika) into a harmonious mixture, ensuring even flavor distribution across the cooker’s bottom.
  3. Chicken Placement: Position whole chicken breasts atop the seasoned rice layer, partially submerging them without complete coverage.
  4. Cooking Process: Cover and set slow cooker to low temperature for 5-6 hours or high setting for 3-4 hours, allowing flavors to meld and intensify.
  5. Meat Preparation: Confirm chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F, then extract breasts and shred using two forks into delicate, uniform pieces. Reintegrate shredded meat into rice mixture.
  6. Final Touches: Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream to create a luxurious texture. Add frozen peas or mixed vegetables, warming them for an additional 10 minutes to enhance nutritional value.
  7. Serving: Plate the creamy chicken and rice, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve steaming hot for a satisfying, comforting meal.

Notes

  • Prevent Rice Clumping: Stir rice mixture thoroughly before adding chicken to ensure even seasoning distribution and avoid dry or undercooked patches.
  • Monitor Liquid Absorption: Check rice midway through cooking to add extra broth if mixture seems too dry, maintaining creamy consistency without burning.
  • Customize Protein Options: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for more flavor or use rotisserie chicken for faster preparation if time is limited.
  • Enhance Dietary Versatility: Replace cream of chicken soup with homemade cream sauce or dairy-free alternative for gluten-free or lactose-intolerant dietary needs.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5-6 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
John Nicholson

John Nicholson

Lead Writer & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Development, Kitchen Hacks and Time-Saving Tips, Flavor Pairing and Ingredient Selection, Engaging Food Writing and Storytelling

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: A hands-on curriculum emphasizing farm-to-table cooking, local ingredient sourcing, and creative menu development. Students gained real-world restaurant experience, learning both classic techniques and modern approaches to sustainable cooking.

John Nicholson honed his skills at Johnson & Wales University, learning how to use fresh, local ingredients and down-to-earth techniques to make cooking simple and satisfying.

His recipes blend Southern comfort flavors with a modern touch, inviting everyone to cook with ease and confidence.

Living in Charleston, John takes cues from the city’s lively food scene, local markets, and seasonal produce. He’s all about making meals stress-free through easy tips, flavor pairings, and fun experiments in the kitchen

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star