Welcome to a culinary delight that combines simplicity and rich flavors – Slow Cooker Creamy Mushroom Chicken & Rice. This recipe is a go-to for busy individuals and families who crave a comforting meal without the fuss. Imagine coming home after a long day to the tantalizing aroma of savory chicken, creamy mushrooms, and perfectly cooked rice. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing each ingredient with flavor while you focus on your day. Not only is this dish delicious, but it also brings together nutritious ingredients that will satisfy everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Slow Cooker Creamy Mushroom Chicken & Rice. First and foremost, the ease of preparation is a game changer. With just a few steps, you can set up your slow cooker and let it work its magic. No need to hover over the stove or constantly check the oven; just set it and forget it!
Another highlight is the flavor profile. The combination of tender chicken thighs, earthy mushrooms, and a rich cream sauce creates a luxurious dish that feels indulgent yet is incredibly simple to make. The heavy cream and cream of mushroom soup meld together beautifully, creating a sauce that coats the rice and chicken perfectly, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
Moreover, this recipe is adaptable. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables, and herbs, or even adjust the spices to cater to your family’s tastes. Want to add some spinach or peas for a pop of color? Go for it! This versatility not only keeps mealtime exciting but also allows you to make it your own.
Lastly, let’s not forget about the nutritional benefits. With protein from the chicken and fiber from the rice, this dish is balanced and filling. Plus, the slow cooking method helps retain the nutrients in the ingredients, making it a wholesome meal option.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
When you think of comforting meals, Slow Cooker Creamy Mushroom Chicken & Rice should be at the top of your list. This dish checks all the boxes: it’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just looking for a hassle-free weeknight meal, this recipe is perfect.
One of the standout features of this recipe is its ability to bring everyone together. The warm, inviting aroma wafting through your home will have your family gathering around the dinner table, eager to dig into a hearty meal. Additionally, the leftovers (if there are any!) make for fantastic lunches or quick dinners, ensuring you get more out of your time in the kitchen.
And let’s talk about the cost-effectiveness. Using chicken thighs instead of more expensive cuts, coupled with pantry staples like rice and cream, makes this dish budget-friendly. You can feed a crowd without breaking the bank!
Moreover, the slow cooker is a fantastic tool for busy lifestyles. You can prep the ingredients in the morning, set the cooker, and return home to a delicious meal that’s ready to serve. It’s the ultimate solution for anyone wanting to enjoy home-cooked meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (about 680g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz/300g) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 cups (about 300g) uncooked white rice
- 1 cup (about 150g) sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Recommended Utensils
- Slow cooker (5-6 quart recommended)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Having these ingredients and utensils ready will set you up for success in making this delightful meal. Remember, the beauty of Slow Cooker Creamy Mushroom Chicken & Rice lies in its simplicity!
Detailed Recipe Steps
Follow these detailed steps to create your own Slow Cooker Creamy Mushroom Chicken & Rice masterpiece:
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the dish a lovely color. Once seasoned, place the chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the Vegetables: Next, layer the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms on top of the seasoned chicken. The vegetables will infuse the chicken with flavor as they cook, creating a delicious base for the meal.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, and heavy cream. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This sauce will be the heart of your dish, bringing everything together.
- Combine: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker, ensuring that everything is evenly coated. This step is critical for achieving that creamy consistency that you’ll love.
- Add the Rice: Gently stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. This will allow the rice to absorb all the flavors as it cooks.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s always best to check that the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender before serving.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooked, give everything a good stir to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a touch of color and freshness to your dish!
Here are a few practical tips to ensure your success:
- For extra flavor, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Adding a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the dish even further.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may dry out more quickly than thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they remain moist.
What can I add to make it a bit healthier?
You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or carrots to enhance the nutritional value. Additionally, using brown rice instead of white can increase fiber content.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Just throw everything in the slow cooker in the morning for a hassle-free dinner!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of broth if it appears too thick.
Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to enjoy it again.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Creamy Mushroom Chicken & Rice is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table. With its ease of preparation and rich flavors, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! And if you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out some of our other delicious slow cooker recipes like Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder and Slow Cooker Creamy Ham and Potato Chowder. Happy cooking!
For more great recipes, visit our Pinterest page to discover even more delicious ideas!

Slow Cooker Creamy Mushroom Chicken & Rice
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup Chicken broth (240ml)
- 1 can Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz/300g)
- 1 cup Heavy cream (240ml)
- 2 cups Uncooked white rice (about 300g)
- 1 cup Sliced mushrooms (about 150g)
- 1 Medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Place them in the slow cooker.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms on top of the chicken.
- In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, and heavy cream. Stir well until smooth.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Gently stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Once cooked, stir everything to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.