Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice: The Ultimate Comfort Meal

Welcome, busy home cooks and comfort food enthusiasts! Are you searching for that perfect weeknight meal that’s both incredibly satisfying and unbelievably simple to prepare? Look no further than this sensational Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice recipe. Imagine tender, juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a rich, creamy, and undeniably cheesy sauce, cooked to perfection with minimal effort. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, designed to bring joy to your dinner table without demanding hours of your precious time. In today’s fast-paced world, finding recipes that deliver on flavor, convenience, and wholesome goodness is like striking culinary gold, and this dish truly embodies all three. Get ready to discover your new family favorite, a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds and singing your praises!

The beauty of slow cooker meals lies in their ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary, and this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a shining example. It’s a complete meal in one pot, meaning fewer dishes and more quality time for you. Whether you’re juggling work, school activities, or simply craving a delicious, no-fuss dinner, this recipe is your answer. It’s versatile, adaptable, and a fantastic way to get a balanced meal on the table. We’re talking about hearty chicken for protein, tender-crisp broccoli for essential nutrients, and fluffy rice for satisfying carbs, all bound together by a luscious cheese sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Prepare to fall in love with the ease and deliciousness of this comforting classic.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice will quickly become a cherished staple in your recipe rotation. First and foremost, its unparalleled convenience is a game-changer for busy households. The slow cooker does 90% of the work, allowing you to go about your day while dinner practically makes itself. Simply prep a few ingredients, toss them in the crockpot, and return hours later to a perfectly cooked, aromatic meal. This “set it and forget it” approach liberates you from constant stirring, monitoring, and last-minute rushes, making it an ideal choice for weekdays or when you have guests coming over.

Beyond convenience, the flavor profile of this dish is simply irresistible. The combination of savory chicken, earthy broccoli, and the creamy, rich cheddar cheese sauce creates a symphony of tastes and textures that appeal to nearly everyone, even picky eaters. The garlic and onion powder infuse the dish with a comforting depth, while the condensed soup creates an incredibly smooth and velvety base that coats every grain of rice and piece of chicken. It’s pure comfort food at its finest, evoking nostalgic feelings of home-cooked meals while offering a sophisticated blend of flavors that adults and children alike will adore. The two-stage addition of cheese ensures maximum cheesiness, with some melting into the sauce for creaminess and a final layer browning beautifully on top for added indulgence.

Furthermore, this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a remarkably versatile dish. It’s easily customizable to fit your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t have fresh broccoli? Frozen works perfectly. Prefer a different type of cheese? Go for it! The basic framework of this recipe is incredibly forgiving, allowing for creative adaptations without compromising on taste or texture. It’s also incredibly budget-friendly, utilizing common pantry staples and affordable cuts of chicken, making it an economical choice for feeding a crowd or managing your grocery budget effectively. The leftovers, if you’re lucky enough to have any, are also fantastic, making it an excellent meal prep option for lunches throughout the week. This combination of ease, deliciousness, versatility, and affordability truly makes this slow cooker cheesy chicken and rice a winning recipe that you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you’re still on the fence about whether to dive into making this incredible Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice, let me convince you. In today’s demanding world, time is a precious commodity, and this recipe is a masterclass in efficiency. You gain back hours typically spent over the stove, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of your life, whether it’s spending quality time with family, tackling hobbies, or simply relaxing after a long day. The slow cooker performs its magic, gently cooking the ingredients to tender perfection, infusing every bite with deep, comforting flavors that are hard to achieve with quicker cooking methods. This slow, low heat also ensures that your chicken remains incredibly moist and shreddable, eliminating the risk of dry, tough meat.

Beyond the time-saving aspect, this particular slow cooker chicken and rice dish excels in its nutritional balance, often a challenge with quick comfort food. It incorporates lean protein from the chicken, essential vitamins and fiber from the broccoli, and energy-providing carbohydrates from the rice, creating a well-rounded meal. It’s an excellent way to sneak in vegetables for those who might be hesitant to eat them, as the cheesy sauce makes the broccoli incredibly appealing. For a delicious twist on a classic comfort dish, you might also enjoy our Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, which shares a similar comforting appeal with a different protein.

Furthermore, this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice recipe is perfect for meal planning. You can easily double the recipe in a larger slow cooker to ensure you have delicious leftovers for lunches or additional dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, maintaining its creamy texture and savory flavor, making your meal prep routine a breeze. Imagine having a wholesome, homemade meal ready to go after a busy day, without any additional cooking required! It also minimizes cleanup, as the entire meal is cooked in one pot, saving you from a mountain of dishes. This combination of convenience, nutritional value, and excellent meal prep potential makes this slow cooker cheesy chicken and broccoli a must-try for anyone looking to simplify their cooking process without sacrificing flavor or quality. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a smart solution for modern living, delivering deliciousness with remarkable ease.

Mastering Your Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice: Essential Ingredients & Tools

To create the perfect Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice, selecting the right ingredients and having the proper tools are key. This section will walk you through everything you need, providing details and tips to ensure your dish turns out flawlessly.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 – 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the star protein. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for slow cooking as they absorb flavors wonderfully and shred easily once cooked. You could also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor and even more tender texture if preferred. Ensure they are trimmed of any excess fat. Using quality chicken ensures the best results for your cheesy chicken and rice bake.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom): This is the creamy backbone of our sauce. Condensed soup provides a rich, thick base that becomes incredibly smooth when combined with other liquids. Cream of chicken enhances the poultry flavor, while cream of mushroom offers an earthier, umami depth. Choose your preference, or even a combination, to customize the flavor of your Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice.
• 2 cups chicken broth: This thins the condensed soup into a pourable, flavorful sauce. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth if you’re watching your salt intake, as the soup and cheese already contribute sodium. The broth also helps in cooking the rice later, ensuring it absorbs maximum flavor.
• ½ cup milk (any kind): Milk adds to the creaminess and richness of the sauce. Whole milk will yield the creamiest result, but 2%, 1%, or even unsweetened almond milk can be used if you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions. The milk, alongside the broth and soup, creates the perfect liquid environment for your slow cooker cheesy chicken and rice.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A classic flavor enhancer, garlic powder adds a warm, savory note that complements the chicken and cheese beautifully. It’s easier to incorporate than fresh minced garlic in a slow cooker and provides a consistent flavor throughout the entire dish.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder provides a subtle, savory depth without the texture of fresh onion. It helps round out the flavor profile of the creamy sauce, making your Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice even more appealing.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for the best flavor, adding a touch of mild spice and aromatic warmth. Adjust to your personal taste preference.
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Start with a conservative amount, as the condensed soup and cheese are already quite salty. You can always add more salt at the end of cooking if needed, after tasting the final dish. Seasoning appropriately is crucial for maximizing the deliciousness of this easy slow cooker recipe.
• 4 cups frozen broccoli florets: Frozen broccoli is a fantastic convenience ingredient for this dish. It’s pre-cut, ready to use, and maintains its texture well in the slow cooker. There’s no need to thaw it beforehand; just add it directly from the freezer. It adds vibrant color, texture, and a healthy dose of vitamins to your slow cooker cheesy chicken and rice.
• 2 cups instant white rice (uncooked): Instant rice is key here because it cooks much faster than regular rice, making it suitable for the shorter final cooking time in the slow cooker. Do NOT use regular long-grain or brown rice, as they require significantly longer cooking times and more liquid, which would overcook the other ingredients. The instant rice will absorb the flavorful sauce, becoming incredibly tender and fluffy.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided: Cheddar cheese is the cornerstone of the “cheesy” aspect of this recipe. Sharp cheddar provides a robust, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce. Dividing the cheese is important: 1 ½ cups for melting into the dish for a creamy consistency, and the remaining ½ cup for sprinkling on top for a beautiful, bubbly crust. Freshly shredded cheese melts much better and tastes superior to pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.

Recommended Tools or Utensils for Recipe Success:

• 6-quart or larger slow cooker (Crockpot): This is the essential piece of equipment for this recipe. A 6-quart size is perfect for the quantities listed, allowing enough space for even cooking. A larger slow cooker is fine, but avoid anything smaller than 6 quarts to prevent overcrowding and uneven cooking. The specific shape (oval vs. round) doesn’t matter as much as the capacity. For more fantastic slow cooker meals, check out our collection of Ovia Recipes.
• Large mixing bowl: Necessary for whisking together the soup, broth, milk, and seasonings. Choose one large enough to prevent spills.
• Whisk: Essential for thoroughly combining the wet ingredients and ensuring a smooth sauce without lumps. A good whisk will make the initial sauce preparation quick and easy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measurements, especially for liquids and seasonings, contributes to the consistent success of your recipe.
• Cutting board: For safely handling and shredding the cooked chicken breasts.
• Two forks: The easiest and most effective way to shred the tender chicken breasts right in the slow cooker or on a cutting board.
• Ladle or large serving spoon: For serving the delicious Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice once it’s ready.

Having these ingredients and tools ready before you start will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, ensuring you create a truly exceptional Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice dish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Creating this delicious Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is incredibly straightforward, but following these detailed steps and tips will ensure your meal is a resounding success. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss, making it a true weeknight warrior.

1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Begin by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom of your 6-quart or larger slow cooker. It’s important not to stack them too high, as an even layer promotes uniform cooking. If your chicken breasts are very thick, you might consider pounding them slightly to an even thickness, about 1-inch, to ensure they cook through at the same rate. This initial setup is crucial for the first stage of tenderizing the chicken for your slow cooker cheesy chicken and rice.
2. Whisk the Creamy Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom, if you prefer), chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Whisk this mixture thoroughly until it is completely smooth and no lumps remain. This ensures a velvety sauce that will evenly coat your chicken and later, the rice and broccoli. Pour this perfectly whisked sauce evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is well-submerged or coated by the liquid, which will keep it moist as it cooks.
3. Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Now, set your slow cooker to cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The cooking time will vary based on your specific slow cooker and the thickness of your chicken breasts. The goal here is to cook the chicken until it is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the fibers pull apart effortlessly. This low-and-slow cooking method is the secret to succulent chicken in this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice.
4. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a clean cutting board. The chicken will be hot and tender, so handle with care. Using two forks – one to hold the chicken steady and the other to pull the meat apart – shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easy to incorporate into the rice mixture and ensures every spoonful has delicious chicken. Alternatively, you can shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker if you prefer, but a cutting board often offers more stability.
5. Add Rice and Broccoli: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, spreading it as evenly as possible over the bottom. Now, add the frozen broccoli florets and the uncooked instant white rice. Spread these ingredients as evenly as you can over the chicken and liquid. It is very important NOT to stir at this stage. Layering the ingredients this way allows the rice to cook properly by absorbing the liquid from the top down, and the broccoli to steam without getting overly mushy. Stirring too early can inhibit the rice from cooking evenly.
6. Cook the Rice and Broccoli: Cover the slow cooker again and continue to cook on HIGH for another 30-45 minutes. This shorter, higher-heat cooking period is specifically for the instant rice and broccoli. Monitor closely: the rice should become tender and absorb most of the liquid, while the broccoli should be tender-crisp, still holding its shape and vibrant green color. If it looks too dry, you can add a splash more broth (about ¼ cup) during the last 15 minutes, though this is rarely necessary if the initial liquid amount was correct and you didn’t stir. This step brings all the elements of your Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice together.
7. Stir in the First Round of Cheese: Once the rice is cooked and most liquid is absorbed, stir the mixture well to combine everything. This is where all the flavors truly meld. Add 1 ½ cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the slow cooker. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and beautifully creamy throughout the dish. The residual heat from the slow cooker will melt the cheese effortlessly, transforming the sauce into a rich, gooey delight. This is the moment your slow cooker cheesy chicken and rice starts to look (and taste) incredibly indulgent.
8. The Final Cheesy Touch: For an extra layer of cheesy goodness and a beautiful presentation, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the dish. Cover the slow cooker for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. This creates a tempting, golden-brown crust that adds another dimension of flavor and texture to your Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Your comforting Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is now ready! Serve it hot, straight from the slow cooker. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives if desired for a touch of color. This dish is hearty enough on its own but also pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread for dipping in that luscious sauce.

Following these detailed instructions will help you achieve a perfectly cooked, incredibly flavorful, and truly satisfying slow cooker cheesy chicken and rice meal every time.

Elevate Your Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice: Tips, Tricks & Variations

While the base recipe for Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is absolutely delicious as is, there are many ways to customize and enhance it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some tips, tricks, and variations to make this comfort food even more spectacular:

Ingredient Alternatives and Swaps:

• Chicken: Instead of chicken breasts, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer, juicier result. They tend to be more forgiving in the slow cooker and yield an even more tender shredded chicken. If you have cooked chicken on hand, you can skip the initial cooking phase and add it along with the rice and broccoli, reducing the overall cooking time significantly.
• Soup Base: Experiment with other condensed cream soups! Cream of celery, cream of potato, or even a combination can offer different flavor nuances. For a lighter touch, you could try a cream of chicken or mushroom soup that is “light” or “healthy request.”
• Vegetables: Don’t limit yourself to just broccoli.
  • Peas: Add frozen peas during the last 15-20 minutes for a pop of color and sweetness.
  • Carrots: Finely diced carrots can be added with the chicken at the beginning for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Spinach: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach during the last 10 minutes; it will wilt beautifully into the sauce.
  • Mushrooms: Sautéed fresh mushrooms can be added with the chicken for an earthy depth.
• Cheese: While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to try other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, a Colby-Jack blend, or even a little Parmesan for a saltier, nuttier kick. A blend of cheeses can add complexity.
• Rice: Remember, instant white rice is crucial for this recipe’s timing. Do not substitute with regular long-grain, brown, or wild rice, as they require longer cooking and different liquid ratios. If you absolutely must use regular rice, it would need to be cooked separately and then stirred in at the end.

Specific Versions:

• Gluten-Free: To make this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice gluten-free, ensure your condensed soup is certified gluten-free (many brands offer this). All other ingredients, like chicken, broccoli, rice, broth, milk, and spices, are naturally gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.
• Dairy-Free (with caution): Achieving the same creaminess without dairy is challenging. You could try dairy-free condensed soups (if available) and dairy-free milk and shredded cheese alternatives. However, the texture and flavor might differ significantly.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or a finely diced jalapeño (seeded for less heat) along with the initial sauce mixture to give your dish a bit of a spicy edge.
• Herbaceous Twist: Stir in fresh chopped parsley or chives at the very end for a fresh, aromatic finish. A pinch of dried thyme or rosemary (½ teaspoon) can be added with the other spices for an earthier flavor profile.

Advice to Avoid Common Mistakes:

• Don’t Stir the Rice Too Early: This is a critical tip. When you add the instant rice and broccoli, do not stir them into the liquid. Spreading them evenly on top allows the rice to steam and absorb liquid properly. Stirring too soon can make the rice gummy or unevenly cooked.
• Watch Your Cooking Times: Slow cookers vary. Always refer to the chicken’s tenderness (easily shreddable) rather than relying solely on the clock. For the rice, check for tenderness and liquid absorption. Overcooking the rice will result in a mushy texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Ensure your slow cooker is appropriately sized. Overfilling can lead to uneven cooking and the risk of spillage.
• Season to Taste: Remember that condensed soups and cheeses can be salty. Start with ¼ teaspoon of salt as suggested, then taste the dish after the cheese has been incorporated and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Freshly Shredded Cheese is Best: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make them less melty and sometimes give a slightly grainy texture. For the creamiest, most delicious result, shred your own block of sharp cheddar.

By keeping these tips and variations in mind, you can consistently create a delightful and perfectly tailored Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice that will impress every time. For another fantastic chicken recipe featuring broccoli and a creamy sauce, consider trying our Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce, which offers a different preparation method but similar flavor profiles.

Nutritional Insights: The Benefits of Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Beyond its undeniable deliciousness and ease of preparation, this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice offers a range of nutritional benefits that make it a wholesome choice for your family’s dinner table. While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific brands, portion sizes, and any modifications you make, we can provide estimated values and highlight the advantages of its key ingredients.

Estimated Nutritional Values (per serving, based on approximately 6-8 servings for the recipe):

• Calories: Approximately 350-450 calories per serving. This makes it a satisfying and energy-providing meal without being overly heavy.
• Protein: Around 25-35 grams per serving. A substantial amount, primarily from the chicken, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions.
• Fats: Roughly 15-25 grams per serving. This includes healthy fats from the chicken and dairy fats from the soup, milk, and cheese. A portion of this will be saturated fat from the cheese and condensed soup, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40 grams per serving. Primarily from the instant white rice and smaller amounts from the broccoli. These provide a readily available source of energy for your body.
• Fiber: Around 3-5 grams per serving. Contributed mainly by the broccoli, important for digestive health and satiety.
• Sodium: Will be higher due to the condensed soup and cheese. If you are managing sodium intake, opt for low-sodium broth and condensed soup, and adjust any added salt to taste.

Benefits of Certain Ingredients:

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and is a vital component of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood. It also contributes significantly to satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer.
• Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s rich in Vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and Vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health. Broccoli also provides dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Furthermore, it contains various antioxidants and compounds that may have anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable addition to your diet. Incorporating vegetables like broccoli into delicious dishes like this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a great way to boost your daily nutrient intake.
• Rice: As a carbohydrate source, white rice provides readily available energy, fueling your body and brain. While instant rice might have a slightly lower fiber content than brown rice, it still serves as a good base for absorbing the rich flavors of the dish.
• Cheese (Cheddar): Cheese, particularly cheddar, is a good source of calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth. It also provides protein and some fat, contributing to the richness and creaminess of the dish, and enhancing the overall satisfaction of your Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice.

In summary, this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is not only a fantastic comfort food but also a meal that delivers significant protein, energy, and essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a complete meal that can fit well into a balanced diet, especially when paired with a fresh side salad to further boost your vegetable intake.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Do you have more questions about making the perfect Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice? Here are some of the most common inquiries, along with helpful answers to ensure your cooking success.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

And there you have it! A comprehensive guide to creating the most comforting, crowd-pleasing, and utterly delicious Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice. We’ve walked through every step, from selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the art of slow cooking, ensuring your dish is nothing short of perfect. This recipe truly embodies the joy of home cooking without the stress, transforming simple pantry staples into a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal that will become a go-to in your culinary repertoire.

The beauty of this slow cooker cheesy chicken and rice lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a complete meal that provides lean protein, essential vegetables, and comforting carbohydrates, all bathed in a luscious, cheesy sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned slow cooker pro or just starting your journey with this incredible kitchen appliance, this recipe is designed for success. It saves you time, minimizes cleanup, and delivers on flavor, making weeknight dinners a breeze and weekend gatherings even more enjoyable. Don’t forget to visit our Pinterest page for more mouth-watering recipe ideas and inspiration!

We encourage you to try this fantastic Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice recipe in your own kitchen. Experience the ease, the aroma, and most importantly, the incredible taste that will have everyone asking for your secret. Once you’ve made it, we’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, your favorite variations, or any success stories in the comments below. Your feedback helps our community of food lovers grow. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

A comforting and easy one-pot meal, this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice combines tender chicken, hearty rice, and fresh broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce, perfect for a busy weeknight.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 6 servings

Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

• 6-quart or larger slow cooker
• Medium Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Two Forks

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1.75 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 - 2 lbs)
• 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz, or cream of mushroom)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup milk (any kind)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 4 cups frozen broccoli florets
• 2 cups instant white rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)

Instructions

 

Preparation Steps

• Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom of your 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
• Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
• Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add the frozen broccoli florets and the uncooked instant white rice to the slow cooker, spreading them as evenly as possible. Do not stir.
• Cover the slow cooker again and continue to cook on HIGH for another 30-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. The broccoli should also be tender-crisp.
• Once the rice is cooked, stir the mixture well to combine everything. Add 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the slow cooker and stir until it's completely melted and creamy throughout the dish.
• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the dish. Cover the slow cooker for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, use instant rice as regular rice may require more liquid and cooking time. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can open the lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate. Feel free to substitute cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken for a slightly different flavor profile. This dish is great served on its own or with a side salad.

Keyword broccoli, cheese, chicken, crockpot, easy dinner, family friendly, one-pot meal, rice, slow cooker