There’s something magical about the aroma of slow cooker chicken and rice wafting through your home. Picture this: tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of spices dancing together in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug, making you feel all cozy inside.

Now, imagine coming home after a long day, and being greeted by this delicious masterpiece waiting for you. The anticipation builds as you realize that all the hard work was done hours ago. Slow cooker chicken and rice is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort and nostalgia, perfect for family dinners or a low-key gathering with friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is as effortless to prepare as it is delicious, making dinner time stress-free
- The flavor is rich and savory, satisfying even the pickiest eaters
- Its inviting appearance brightens up any table setting
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve on busy weeknights or special occasions
There was that one rainy Sunday when I made slow cooker chicken and rice for my family, and everyone’s faces lit up with joy. The kids practically inhaled it, claiming it was their new favorite dish.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for optimal tenderness; adjust based on your crowd size.
Long-Grain Rice: Perfectly fluffy when cooked; opt for long-grain for the best texture.
Chicken Broth: A flavorful base; homemade is great but store-bought works wonders too.
Onion: Adds sweetness; chop finely to blend seamlessly into the dish.
Garlic: Use fresh cloves for robust flavor; minced garlic brings out the best taste.
Carrots: Add color and sweetness; diced carrots cook perfectly alongside the chicken.
Frozen Peas: Toss them in near the end for a pop of green and freshness.
Your Favorite Spices: Season with salt, pepper, paprika, or Italian herbs to your liking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare yourself for an easy culinary adventure that’ll have your taste buds singing!
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on a clean countertop. This helps streamline your cooking process—trust me, it makes everything smoother.
Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper generously. This simple step enhances their natural flavor beautifully.
Sauté Your Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes does the trick.
Add Everything to the Slow Cooker: Layer your seasoned chicken in the slow cooker first. Then pour in rinsed rice, broth, sautéed onion-garlic mix, diced carrots, and spices evenly over everything.
Set It & Forget It!: Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. Just let it do its magic while you go about your day!
Add Peas & Fluff Up: About 20 minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas to warm through. Once done cooking, fluff the mixture gently with a fork to separate the rice grains.
Enjoy every bite of this comforting slow cooker chicken and rice! You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly delicious it turns out!
You Must Know
- Slow cooker chicken and rice is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The savory aroma wafts through your home, inviting everyone to the table
- It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a little magic in your life
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the chicken to lock in flavors, then add rice and broth for an even cook. This ensures maximum flavor infusion and tender textures.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping out the chicken for turkey or mixing in seasonal veggies like carrots or spinach. Spice it up with different herbs to keep things exciting.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed for moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor; it makes a noticeable difference in taste
- Letting the dish sit before serving helps flavors meld beautifully
- Always taste and adjust seasoning right before serving for perfect results
I remember the first time I made slow cooker chicken and rice. My friends devoured it and kept asking for more! It became our go-to comfort food during movie nights.
FAQ
What type of rice is best for slow cooker chicken and rice?
Long-grain white rice works best as it cooks evenly without becoming mushy.
Can I use frozen chicken in my recipe?
Absolutely! Just increase cooking time by about 30 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free broth and ensure all seasonings are also gluten-free compliant.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables, all infused with savory spices. As it simmers in your slow cooker, the delightful aroma fills your home, creating an irresistible invitation for family and friends to gather around the table. This effortless recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied and happy.
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup carrots (diced)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Layer seasoned chicken in the slow cooker; add rinsed rice, broth, sautéed onions and garlic, diced carrots, and spices.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 20 minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas.
- Once cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg