There’s something magical about the aroma of crockpot chicken and rice wafting through the house, isn’t there? Picture this: tender, juicy chicken mingling with fluffy rice, all bathed in a savory broth that dances with spices. Each bite is a warm hug, wrapping you in comfort like your favorite blanket on a chilly evening.
Now, let me take you back to a family gathering where I first discovered this culinary gem. I remember my Aunt Marge proudly presenting her crockpot creation, and the moment I tasted it, my taste buds did a little happy jig. It was perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when all you want is something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This crockpot chicken and rice recipe is not just easy; it practically cooks itself while you enjoy your day
- The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that looks as good as it tastes
- It’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients you have lurking in your pantry
- Serving this dish brings smiles all around the dinner table!
I’ll never forget the time my friends came over for game night and devoured every last morsel of this dish—it quickly became our go-to recipe for gatherings!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work perfectly; adjust based on your crowd size.
Long-Grain Rice: This variety absorbs flavors beautifully and cooks evenly in the crockpot.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness and richer flavor.
Vegetables (Onions, Carrots, Peas): Fresh or frozen vegetables add color and nutrients; use your favorites!
Garlic Powder: A must-have for adding depth; fresh garlic works too if you’re feeling fancy!
Dried Herbs (Thyme, Parsley): Use a mix of dried herbs for that homestyle flavor boost.
For the Sauce:
Soy Sauce: Adds umami richness; opt for low-sodium to keep things balanced.
Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives it an aromatic kick; don’t skip this step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Chicken : Start by placing those boneless chicken breasts in the bottom of your trusty crockpot. No need to thaw them if they’re frozen; just toss them right in!
Add Flavorful Goodness : Pour in chicken broth until everything is submerged. Toss in your veggies—onions, carrots, and peas—and sprinkle garlic powder along with dried herbs for an aromatic kick.
Stir Things Up : Gently stir everything together ensuring that rice is coated well with broth and seasonings. You want each grain of rice to soak up all that deliciousness.
Set It and Forget It : Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Go live your life while the magic happens!
Final Touches : When cooking time is up, check that chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Shred it with two forks right inside the pot and fold everything together gently.
Serve and Enjoy!: Spoon out generous servings into bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy, and dive into that comforting goodness!
This easy crockpot chicken and rice recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Each bite offers warmth—a hug from within on those hectic days when you need it most!
You Must Know
- This crockpot chicken and rice recipe is a game-changer for busy nights
- The aroma of savory herbs fills your home, while the tender chicken and fluffy rice create a comforting dish
- Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by adding your seasoned chicken to the crockpot, then layer in rice and broth. Let it cook on low for about six hours for perfect tenderness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in brown rice or add seasonal vegetables for extra nutrition. You can customize the spices to suit your taste preferences, too!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always season your chicken well before cooking; it makes all the difference in flavor
- Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness and enhance taste
- Keep an eye on liquid levels; adding too much can make the dish soupy instead of creamy
My friend once raved about this dish after I made it for a potluck; it turned out to be an unexpected hit among even the pickiest eaters!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken in my crockpot chicken and rice?
Yes, but ensure you increase the cooking time by about one hour.
What side dishes pair well with crockpot chicken and rice?
A fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish beautifully.
How do I make crockpot chicken and rice creamy?
Add cream cheese or sour cream during the last hour of cooking for extra creaminess.
Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Crockpot Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables in a savory broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely Sundays, this dish cooks itself while you enjoy your day. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it will quickly become a family favorite, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (onions, carrots, peas)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Place the frozen or thawed chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken broth until the chicken is submerged.
- Add mixed vegetables, garlic powder, thyme, parsley, and soy sauce. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked (internal temperature of 165°F), shred the chicken with two forks and mix well before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
