Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This delicious Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that simmers all day to bring out rich flavors and a creamy texture.
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is perfect for busy weeknights. The chicken becomes incredibly tender and the rice absorbs all the savory flavors. It's a dish that everyone in the family will love!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
- Minimal prep time makes it perfect for busy days
- A one-pot meal that simplifies cleanup
A Comforting Family Favorite
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal; it's a comforting dish that brings families together. This recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables into a rich, creamy mixture that everyone will love. It's perfect for chilly evenings or any day when you need a little extra comfort. With its delightful flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that feels indulgent without the fuss. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on your day. You can easily prepare it in the morning and return home to a delicious, warm meal waiting for you.
Perfect for Busy Schedules
Life can be hectic, and finding the time to prepare a nutritious meal can be a challenge. That's where this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice shines. With minimal prep time required, you can have dinner ready with very little effort. Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. This makes it an ideal choice for busy parents or anyone juggling a packed schedule.
Additionally, this recipe allows for flexibility. You can easily customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your family's preferences. Whether you prefer peas, carrots, or corn, you can make this dish your own. It’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrition while still delivering on flavor.
Simple Cleanup
One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is that it’s a one-pot meal. After enjoying a delicious dinner, cleanup is a breeze. With everything cooked in the slow cooker, you only have a few dishes to wash, allowing you to spend more time relaxing with your family or indulging in your favorite activities after dinner. This makes it not just a meal, but an experience that is enjoyable from start to finish.
Moreover, the creamy chicken and rice can be stored easily for leftovers, making it a perfect option for meal prep. You can reheat it for lunch or dinner the next day, making your life even easier. The flavors often deepen overnight, so you might find that it's even better the next day!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice:
Prepare the slow cooker
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Add other ingredients
Layer the rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, and frozen vegetables over the chicken. Pour the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup on top.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Shred the chicken
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine everything. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Enjoy your creamy and delicious chicken and rice!
Tips for Success
To ensure the best results, make sure to use long-grain white rice, as it cooks well in the slow cooker and absorbs all the flavors. Avoid using instant rice, as it can become mushy when cooked for an extended period. Additionally, consider searing the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the flavor and gives the chicken a delicious golden crust.
Adjusting the seasoning is key to achieving the perfect taste. After shredding the chicken and mixing everything, give it a taste and add more salt, pepper, or spices as desired. Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. A fresh garden salad can provide a nice contrast to the creaminess of the chicken and rice, adding crunch and brightness to your plate. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables for a heartier side.
For those who enjoy a little heat, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes or serving with a side of hot sauce. This can elevate the dish and appeal to those who appreciate a spicy kick. No matter how you choose to serve it, this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is sure to impress.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making this a great option for meal prep. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if it appears a bit dry.
For longer storage, you can freeze the creamy chicken and rice for up to 3 months. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This dish maintains its flavor and texture beautifully, ensuring you can enjoy it even weeks later.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but note that brown rice will require a longer cooking time.
→ Can I make this dish with frozen chicken?
Yes, just ensure it cooks thoroughly; it may take a bit longer.
→ How can I make this dish healthier?
You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a lighter version or use homemade soup.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This creamy chicken and rice can be served with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
This delicious Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that simmers all day to bring out rich flavors and a creamy texture.
Created by: Tessa Wright
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Layer the rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, and frozen vegetables over the chicken. Pour the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup on top.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine everything. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 46g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g