Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
This comforting dish is perfect for busy days. Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy flavor that satisfies every craving
- Minimal prep time makes it perfect for busy schedules
- One-pot meal means easy cleanup and less hassle
A Comforting Classic
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is the epitome of comfort food. It combines tender chicken cooked to perfection with a rich, creamy sauce that envelops fluffy rice. This dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a staple for families and busy individuals alike. The slow cooker method infuses the flavors beautifully, allowing the chicken to absorb the delicious seasonings and creating a meal that feels like a warm hug.
What sets this dish apart is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether you stick to the classic combination of peas and carrots or experiment with broccoli or bell peppers, this recipe adapts to your tastes and dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrients for your family while still delivering on flavor.
Effortless Preparation
One of the standout features of this recipe is its minimal prep time. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready to go. Simply chop your vegetables, combine the ingredients, and let the slow cooker do the work. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights when you want a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Just set it and forget it until meal time.
Moreover, the one-pot design means cleanup is a breeze. No need to worry about multiple pots and pans cluttering your kitchen. Everything cooks together in the slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup afterward. This makes it a favorite for meal prep and gatherings, where you can spend more time with loved ones and less time washing dishes.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks. Its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy. You can serve it as a main course or as a side dish to complement other favorites. The versatility of this recipe allows it to shine at both casual gatherings and more formal events.
Additionally, leftovers are just as delicious, making this dish a great option for meal prep. You can easily store the leftovers in the fridge for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, ensuring you enjoy a tasty meal even days after it was originally made.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Combine Ingredients
In a bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Add Rice and Vegetables
Sprinkle the rice over the chicken and then add the frozen peas and carrots on top.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks, stir to combine, and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice!
Nutritional Benefits
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing body tissues. The addition of peas and carrots provides vitamins and minerals that support overall health, making this meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Using brown rice instead of white rice is a fantastic way to boost the fiber content of this dish. Fiber is vital for digestive health and can help keep you feeling full longer. Additionally, you can add spinach or kale for an extra dose of greens, enhancing the nutritional profile without compromising on flavor.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, allow the creamy chicken and rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving, as this ensures the best texture and flavor.
For longer storage, consider freezing the portions. This dish freezes well and can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warm. This makes it a convenient option for busy days when you need a quick meal without the hassle.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken and rice dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to add some freshness to your meal. A light vinaigrette or lemon dressing can complement the creamy flavors beautifully. Consider serving it with warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
If you're looking for a little extra kick, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before serving. This adds an exciting layer of flavor that can elevate your meal. For a special touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to enhance the presentation and taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
→ Is it possible to use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but ensure they are fully cooked before serving.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or broccoli.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Created by: Freya Cooper
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Begin by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
In a bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Sprinkle the rice over the chicken and then add the frozen peas and carrots 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, stir to combine, and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 30g