Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe: Your New Go-To Comfort Meal

Welcome to Ovia Recipes, where we celebrate the magic of home cooking, especially when it involves minimal effort and maximum flavor. Today, we’re diving into a dish that embodies everything we love about comfort food: the Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe. Imagine tender, succulent chicken pieces, perfectly cooked long-grain rice, and a medley of wholesome vegetables, all swimming in a rich, savory, and incredibly creamy sauce. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a culinary triumph that effortlessly comes together in your slow cooker, making busy weeknights feel like a breeze. Forget about juggling multiple pots and pans; with this recipe, your Crock Pot does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – enjoying delicious, homemade food with your loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned slow cooker enthusiast or just starting your journey into the world of convenient cooking, this one-pot wonder is destined to become a staple in your rotation. It’s the kind of dish that consistently delivers on taste, texture, and pure, unadulterated comfort, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for families and individuals alike.

The beauty of this slow cooker chicken and rice lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it achieves with minimal fuss. From the moment you layer the ingredients into your Crock Pot, a symphony of aromas begins to build, promising a delicious outcome. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and incredibly easy to prepare. It’s perfect for those days when you need a wholesome dinner without the stress of constant monitoring. Get ready to experience the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, but only took minutes to assemble. The Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a smart solution for wholesome eating.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is poised to become a cherished favorite in your household. First and foremost is the unparalleled convenience it offers. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare nutritious, home-cooked meals can feel like a monumental task. This slow cooker chicken and rice recipe liberates you from the kitchen, allowing you to simply combine your ingredients in the morning or early afternoon, set your Crock Pot, and return hours later to a perfectly cooked, ready-to-serve dinner. The “set it and forget it” nature of slow cooking is truly a game-changer, giving you back precious time for family, hobbies, or simply relaxing.

Beyond convenience, the flavor profile of this dish is simply irresistible. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a creamy, herb-infused sauce creates a symphony of tastes and textures that appeal to even the pickiest eaters. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and deepen over several hours, resulting in a richness that cannot be achieved with quicker cooking methods. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, practically falling apart with just a fork, while the long-grain white rice absorbs all the savory liquid, becoming wonderfully plump and flavorful. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that truly sticks to your ribs, making it ideal for chilly evenings or after a long, demanding day.

Furthermore, this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is incredibly versatile. While the core ingredients provide a robust foundation, there’s ample room for customization to suit your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t have cream of chicken soup? Cream of mushroom works beautifully! Want to add more vegetables? Feel free to toss in some corn, bell peppers, or even spinach. This adaptability means you can tweak the recipe slightly each time you make it, keeping things fresh and exciting. It’s also a remarkably budget-friendly meal. Chicken breasts or thighs, common vegetables, and pantry staples like rice and canned soup are generally inexpensive, making this a fantastic option for feeding a family without breaking the bank. The generous portions this recipe yields also mean you’ll often have delicious leftovers, perfect for lunches the next day, further maximizing your food budget. It’s a meal that delivers on all fronts: ease, taste, flexibility, and affordability, ensuring it will be a recipe you turn to again and again.

Why You Should Try This Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Dish Today

If you’re still on the fence about trying this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe, let us convince you that it’s an absolute must-add to your culinary repertoire. Firstly, it champions the concept of healthy, wholesome eating without sacrificing flavor or convenience. By cooking your chicken and vegetables in one pot, you retain more of their natural nutrients. Plus, you control the ingredients, avoiding the excessive sodium and unhealthy fats often found in processed or takeout meals. It’s a great way to ensure your family is getting a balanced meal packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and satisfying carbohydrates, all contributing to sustained energy throughout the day. This is comfort food redefined – delicious and good for you!

Beyond its health benefits, this slow cooker chicken and rice is a phenomenal solution for meal planning and busy schedules. Imagine coming home after a hectic day, the enticing aroma of dinner already filling your home, eliminating the stress of last-minute meal preparation. This recipe is perfect for batch cooking; the generous yield means you’ll likely have leftovers, which reheat beautifully for quick lunches or another effortless dinner. This forward-thinking approach to meals can save you time, money, and reduce food waste, making your weekly routine significantly smoother. It’s the ultimate antidote to the dinner dilemma, transforming potential chaos into culinary calm.

Furthermore, the cleanup is an absolute dream. Unlike meals that require multiple pots, pans, and baking dishes, this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is a true one-pot wonder. All the magic happens within the slow cooker, meaning minimal scrubbing and stacking afterwards. This simplicity extends to the cooking process itself; there’s no need for constant stirring, flipping, or monitoring. Just layer, pour, cover, and let your slow cooker do its work. This hands-off approach makes it an ideal recipe for beginner cooks looking to build confidence in the kitchen, or for seasoned chefs seeking a break from intensive cooking. It’s also incredibly forgiving, making it difficult to go wrong. The consistent, gentle heat of the slow cooker ensures that ingredients cook evenly and thoroughly, producing a delicious and perfectly textured dish every time. Give this amazing Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe a try today, and discover the joy of effortless, delicious, and healthy home cooking. You won’t regret making this hearty and easy slow cooker meal a regular feature in your weekly menu.

Essential Ingredients and Utensils for Your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

To embark on the delightful journey of creating this savory Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe, you’ll need a selection of fresh, wholesome ingredients and a few key kitchen tools. The beauty of this dish lies in its accessible components, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any grocery store. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need to gather:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Chicken breasts offer a leaner option and shred beautifully, while boneless, skinless chicken thighs will yield a richer, more succulent result dueaining a little more moisture and flavor during the long cooking process. Choose what you prefer or what’s on sale!
• 1 large onion, chopped: A foundational aromatic that adds a sweet, savory depth to the dish. Don’t skip this, as it builds the base flavor.
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced: Carrots bring natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color, plus essential vitamins. Dicing them ensures they cook down to a tender consistency that blends perfectly with the rice and chicken.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: Celery provides a subtle earthy flavor and crucial texture to the vegetable medley, rounding out the classic mirepoix base.
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup): This is the secret to the incredibly creamy, rich sauce that coats every grain of rice and piece of chicken. Cream of mushroom soup is an excellent substitute if you prefer its earthy notes or don’t have cream of chicken on hand. Consider a low-sodium version if managing salt intake.
• 2 cups chicken broth: The primary liquid that the rice will absorb and the chicken will cook in. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to better control the overall saltiness of your dish. This also allows the other seasonings to shine.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A pantry staple that provides a robust garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic mincing. It distributes evenly throughout the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the natural onion flavor from the fresh onion, adding an extra layer of savory depth to the creamy sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb is a classic pairing with chicken and rice, lending a warm, earthy, and slightly floral note that elevates the entire dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper will offer the best aroma and a subtle kick, complementing the other seasonings. Adjust to your preference.
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential for seasoning all components of the dish. Remember to taste and adjust at the end, especially if using regular (not low-sodium) broth or soup.
• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked: The star of the show! Long-grain white rice cooks beautifully in the slow cooker, absorbing the savory liquid to become perfectly tender. Do not use instant or quick-cooking rice, as it will turn mushy. Brown rice can be used, but will require significantly more liquid and cooking time.
• 1 cup frozen green peas (optional): Added at the very end, these vibrant peas bring a touch of sweetness, extra nutrition, and a burst of color to the finished dish. They also add a lovely fresh texture contrast.
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds brightness, a hint of peppery freshness, and makes the dish visually appealing. It’s highly recommended for that restaurant-quality finish.

Necessary Utensils and Tools:

Having the right tools makes any cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. For this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe, you’ll need:

• 6-quart (or larger) Slow Cooker (Crock Pot): This is the absolute star of the recipe! A 6-quart size is ideal for the volume of ingredients in this recipe, ensuring even cooking. If you have a larger one (7-8 quart), that will work too.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate measurements of both dry and liquid ingredients, ensuring consistent results every time.
• Large Mixing Bowl: For whisking together the soup, broth, and seasonings before pouring them over the chicken and vegetables.
• Whisk: To ensure the cream of chicken soup and broth are smoothly combined with the seasonings, preventing lumps.
• Cutting Board: For safely chopping your onion, carrots, and celery.
• Sharp Knife: A good chef’s knife or utility knife is crucial for efficient and safe vegetable preparation.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: For easily removing the cooked chicken from the slow cooker for shredding.
• Two Forks: The simplest and most effective way to shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Cooking Spray or Oil: For lightly greasing the inside of your slow cooker to prevent sticking and make cleanup even easier.

With these simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools, you’re perfectly equipped to create a truly unforgettable and effortless Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe that will become a cherished part of your family’s meal rotation. Get ready for an easy, delicious, and satisfying meal!

Detailed Recipe Steps: Crafting Your Perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Rice

Creating this comforting Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is wonderfully straightforward, designed to maximize flavor with minimal hands-on effort. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect, creamy, and satisfying meal every time. Pay close attention to the timing, especially when adding the rice, as this is key to achieving the ideal texture.

1. Prepare the Crock Pot: Begin by lightly greasing the inside of your 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker. A quick spray of cooking spray or a thin swipe of neutral oil (like vegetable or canola oil) will do the trick. This crucial first step prevents ingredients from sticking to the bottom and sides during the long cooking process, making cleanup significantly easier. It’s a small effort that yields big rewards in terms of convenience.
2. Layer the Chicken: Carefully place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs evenly at the bottom of the prepared slow cooker. Lay them in a single layer if possible, or arrange them as flatly as you can. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and is fully submerged in the liquid later. Using boneless, skinless chicken means no fussing with bones or skin later – pure, tender meat.
3. Add Vegetables: Next, scatter the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery generously over the top of the chicken pieces in the slow cooker. These vegetables not only add essential nutrients and vibrant color but also contribute a foundational aromatic base to the dish as they slowly cook down and release their flavors into the creamy sauce. Distribute them as evenly as possible.
4. Combine Liquids and Seasonings: In a separate medium bowl, it’s time to create the incredibly flavorful liquid base. Whisk together the can of cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup, if using) with the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and completely well combined. Take your time with this step to ensure there are no lumps. Once smooth, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Give it another good whisk to ensure all the seasonings are thoroughly incorporated throughout the liquid. This pre-mixing step guarantees even seasoning across the entire dish.
5. Pour Over Ingredients: Carefully pour the prepared liquid mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. It’s important to ensure that all the ingredients, especially the chicken, are well covered by the liquid. This ensures everything cooks through properly and the chicken stays moist and tender. Give the slow cooker a gentle shake or use a spoon to ensure even distribution if needed.
6. Initial Cooking: Now, the magic begins! Cover the slow cooker with its lid securely. Cook on the LOW setting for 3 to 4 hours, or if you’re in a bit more of a hurry, use the HIGH setting for 2 to 3 hours. The goal during this stage is for the chicken to be cooked through and easily shreddable. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s opaque throughout and practically falls apart when prodded with a fork. Cooking times can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it.
7. Shred Chicken: Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, carefully remove the pieces from the slow cooker and place them onto a clean cutting board. Be gentle, as they will be very tender. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easy to incorporate back into the rice mixture and ensures every spoonful is packed with chicken. Set the shredded chicken aside for a moment.
8. Add Rice: This is a critical step for perfect rice texture. Stir the uncooked long-grain white rice directly into the liquid and vegetable mixture remaining in the slow cooker. It’s crucial that the rice is fully submerged in the hot liquid. If any rice grains are sitting above the liquid, they won’t cook properly and will remain hard. Gently stir to ensure even distribution and submersion. Do NOT add the rice earlier, as it will become mushy from overcooking.
9. Return Chicken: Add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker, gently stirring it in with the rice and liquid mixture. You want everything to be well distributed so that the flavors meld together as the rice cooks.
10. Final Cooking: Re-cover the slow cooker with its lid. Continue to cook on the HIGH setting for another 45 minutes to 1 hour. During this final stage, the rice will absorb most of the liquid and become tender. Periodically check the rice for doneness – it should be soft and plump. If, at any point, the mixture appears too thick or dry, you can add a small amount of additional chicken broth (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup) to achieve your desired consistency. This flexibility ensures a perfectly creamy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe.
11. Add Peas (Optional): If you’re using frozen green peas, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This allows them to heat through gently without becoming mushy or losing their vibrant color. They add a lovely fresh pop and extra nutrition.
12. Rest and Serve: Once the rice is tender and the liquid mostly absorbed, turn off the slow cooker. Let the chicken and rice rest, covered, for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period is important as it allows the flavors to truly meld together and the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid, resulting in a creamier, more cohesive texture. It also cools down slightly to a perfect serving temperature.
13. Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle the warm, aromatic Crock Pot Chicken and Rice into bowls. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm and watch it disappear! This hearty and easy slow cooker meal is sure to become a family favorite.

Tips, Tricks, and Creative Variations for Your Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is already fantastic as is, but here are some tips to perfect it and variations to inspire your culinary creativity. Whether you want to adapt it for dietary needs, add extra flavor, or simply avoid common pitfalls, these insights will help you make this dish truly your own.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcook the Rice: The most crucial tip! Adding the rice in the final stage (after the chicken is cooked) prevents it from becoming mushy. Different slow cookers can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on the rice during the last 45-60 minutes. It should be tender but still have a slight bite.
• Adjust Liquid as Needed: The amount of liquid absorbed by rice can vary. If your dish looks too dry during the final cooking stage, don’t hesitate to add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of extra chicken broth. Conversely, if it seems too wet at the end, remove the lid for the last 15-20 minutes to allow some moisture to evaporate.
• Season to Taste: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. You might find you need a pinch more salt or pepper, or perhaps a dash of your favorite herb blend.
• Use Fresh Herbs: While dried thyme works perfectly, a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary at the beginning, or fresh parsley/dill at the end, can elevate the aroma and flavor significantly.
• Sear the Chicken (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, quickly sear the chicken breasts or thighs in a skillet with a little olive oil until lightly golden brown before adding them to the slow cooker. This develops a delicious fond that adds depth to the sauce.
• Thawing Frozen Chicken: Always use thawed chicken for even cooking. Placing frozen chicken directly into the slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking and can keep the temperature in the “danger zone” for too long.

Delicious Variations:

• Cheesy Chicken and Rice: Stir in 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Colby-Jack blend during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, or immediately after turning off the slow cooker and letting it rest. The residual heat will melt the cheese into a gooey, delicious consistency.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings for a subtle heat, or stir in a tablespoon of chopped canned green chilies or a dash of hot sauce at the end.
• Cream of Mushroom/Celery Substitute: If you’re not a fan of cream of chicken, cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup works equally well and adds a different flavor profile. You can also make your own cream of soup substitute using a roux (butter, flour, milk/broth) if you prefer to avoid canned soups.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Diced bell peppers (add at the beginning), corn (add with peas), or even a handful of fresh spinach (stir in during the last 5 minutes) can boost nutrition and flavor.
• Mediterranean Flair: Add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1/4 cup of chopped Kalamata olives along with the initial vegetables. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end will brighten the flavors even more.
• Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: For an even quicker meal, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Skip the initial chicken cooking step. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken with the rice during the final cooking stage, ensuring it heats through. You may need to reduce initial liquid slightly as rotisserie chicken won’t release as much moisture.
• Brown Rice Option: While the recipe calls for long-grain white rice, brown rice can be used. However, it will require significantly more cooking time (often 2-3 hours longer) and potentially more liquid. Plan accordingly and check for tenderness.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure your cream of chicken soup and chicken broth are certified gluten-free. Most brands offer GF versions now, making this a simple adjustment for those with dietary restrictions. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

These tips and variations ensure that your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is always a hit, tailored perfectly to your taste and needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your signature dish!

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Crock Pot Chicken and Rice

Beyond its incredible ease and delicious flavor, this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe offers a wholesome and nutritious profile that makes it an excellent choice for a balanced meal. While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific brands of ingredients, portion sizes, and any additions or substitutions you make, we can provide a general overview of what this hearty dish brings to your table.

General Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approximate):

A typical serving of Crock Pot Chicken and Rice (approximately 1.5 – 2 cups) would generally fall into these approximate ranges:

• Calories: 350-500 kcal (depending on chicken cut and added ingredients like cheese/peas)
• Protein: 30-40 grams (primarily from the chicken, essential for muscle repair and growth)
• Fats: 10-20 grams (can be reduced by using chicken breasts, low-fat soup, or draining any excess fat from thighs)
• Carbohydrates: 30-50 grams (from rice and vegetables, providing energy)
• Fiber: 3-6 grams (from vegetables like carrots, celery, and peas, important for digestive health)
• Sodium: 600-900 mg (can be significantly reduced by using low-sodium broth and soup, and controlling added salt)

It’s important to remember these are estimates. To get precise values, you would need to calculate based on the specific products you use. However, this overview demonstrates that it’s a calorie-efficient source of lean protein and complex carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and energy-providing meal.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients:

• Chicken (Boneless, Skinless Breasts or Thighs): Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins (B3, B6, B12), phosphorus, and selenium. Using boneless, skinless cuts helps keep the fat content lower.
• Long-Grain White Rice: While often criticized, white rice is a good source of easily digestible carbohydrates, providing quick and sustained energy. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be a good option for those with sensitive digestive systems. Choosing enriched rice also adds back some essential vitamins.
• Carrots: These vibrant root vegetables are packed with beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A – crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health. They also provide fiber, Vitamin K, and antioxidants.
• Celery: A low-calorie vegetable, celery is a good source of Vitamin K, folate, and potassium. It also contributes dietary fiber and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation.
• Onion: Onions add more than just flavor; they contain antioxidants, prebiotics (which feed beneficial gut bacteria), and compounds that may help reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels.
• Green Peas (Optional): A powerhouse of nutrition, green peas are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as B vitamins, fiber, and protein. They contribute to bone health, immune function, and digestive regularity.

In summary, this Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is more than just a delicious and convenient meal; it’s a nourishing dish that supports a healthy lifestyle. By focusing on whole ingredients and leveraging the gentle cooking of the slow cooker, you create a meal that’s satisfying for both your taste buds and your body. It’s a testament to the fact that comfort food can indeed be good for you!

FAQs about Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Weeknight Hero

There you have it – the definitive guide to creating the most comforting, effortless, and utterly delicious Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe. We’ve explored every facet of this incredible dish, from the simplicity of its ingredients and preparation to the deep, satisfying flavors it delivers. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a testament to the power of slow cooking, transforming everyday ingredients into a wholesome, hearty meal that nourishes both body and soul.

We’ve highlighted why this one-pot wonder will quickly become a beloved staple in your home: its unmatched convenience for busy lifestyles, the incredible depth of flavor achieved through gentle, prolonged cooking, its versatility for customization, and its budget-friendly nature. Furthermore, we delved into its nutritional benefits, showing how a comforting meal can also be packed with lean protein, essential vitamins, and fiber. The detailed step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve perfect results, while our tips and variations invite seasoned chefs to put their own unique spin on this classic.

This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe truly simplifies mealtime, freeing you from the tyranny of constant kitchen duty and allowing you to spend more quality time doing what you love. The minimal cleanup is just the cherry on top! It’s the kind of dish that garners rave reviews, filling your home with an inviting aroma and your family with happy sighs of contentment. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to embrace the magic of your slow cooker and create a meal that promises warmth, flavor, and pure comfort in every spoonful.

We genuinely hope you try this fantastic slow cooker chicken and rice dish soon. We’re confident it will earn a permanent spot on your weekly menu rotation. If you do make it, we’d love to hear about your experience! Please feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts, any variations you tried, or questions you might have. Share this article with your friends and family who could benefit from this easy, delicious, and satisfying meal. Happy cooking!

Hearty Crock Pot Chicken and Rice: An Easy One-Pot Meal

This comforting Crock Pot Chicken and Rice recipe offers a delicious and easy way to create a hearty family dinner with minimal effort. Tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and mixed vegetables are cooked together in a creamy, savory sauce.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• 6-quart Slow Cooker
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Two Forks

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 large onion chopped
• 2 carrots peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks diced
• 1 can (10.5 ounce) cream of chicken soup or cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice uncooked
• 1 cup frozen green peas optional
• Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Prepare the Crock Pot: Lightly grease the inside of your 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.
• Layer the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs evenly at the bottom of the prepared slow cooker.
• Add Vegetables: Scatter the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery over the top of the chicken pieces in the slow cooker.
• Combine Liquids and Seasonings: In a medium bowl, whisk together the can of cream of chicken soup with the chicken broth until smooth and well combined. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt.
• Pour Over Ingredients: Carefully pour the liquid mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Ensure all ingredients are well covered by the liquid.
• Initial Cooking: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on LOW setting for 3 to 4 hours, or on HIGH setting for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
• Shred Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
• Add Rice: Stir the uncooked long-grain white rice directly into the liquid and vegetable mixture in the slow cooker. Make sure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid.
• Return Chicken: Add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker, gently stirring it in with the rice and liquid mixture.
• Final Cooking: Re-cover the slow cooker. Continue to cook on HIGH setting for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If the mixture appears too thick or dry, you can add a small amount of additional chicken broth (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup) during this stage.
• Add Peas (Optional): During the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen green peas (if using). This allows them to heat through without becoming mushy.
• Rest and Serve: Once the rice is tender, turn off the slow cooker and let the chicken and rice rest, covered, for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid, resulting in a creamier texture.
• Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle the Crock Pot Chicken and Rice into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, consider lightly browning the chicken pieces in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. You can also experiment with different vegetables like sliced mushrooms or corn. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Keyword chicken, crock pot, easy, family friendly, one-pot meal, rice, slow cooker