Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Classics
Enjoy a comforting and delicious meal with this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice. It's perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please the whole family.
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice, making it a favorite for families everywhere. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting meal that requires minimal effort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that's satisfying.
- Easy preparation with minimal clean-up.
- Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
A Comforting Classic
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It's perfect for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather, making it a go-to recipe for many families.
The slow cooker does all the hard work for you, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Just set it up in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve. It’s the quintessential busy weeknight solution for those who want a homemade dinner without the fuss.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While the base ingredients are simple, you can easily customize the dish to suit your family's preferences. Swap in different vegetables, like peas or corn, or even add in some spices for a kick. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Additionally, if you have leftover rotisserie chicken, feel free to incorporate it. Just add it in during the last hour of cooking to heat through, making this recipe even more convenient for those busy nights. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe is ideal for meal prepping. You can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch, ensuring you have leftovers for the week ahead. Simply store individual portions in airtight containers, and you’ll have a homemade meal ready to go for lunch or dinner.
By preparing this dish in advance, you save time and effort on busy days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, and you’ll have a satisfying meal that tastes just as good as the day it was made. It's a great way to stick to your meal plan without compromising on flavor.
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 mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready for an easy cooking experience.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the Rice and Soup
Spread the rice evenly over the chicken and then pour the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth over the top.
Incorporate Vegetables
Add the frozen mixed vegetables on top, gently pressing them into the mixture.
Cook the Dish
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix everything together. Serve warm and enjoy!
This dish is perfect served alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread.
Pro Tips
For added flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheating is simple; just warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore its creamy texture.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the dish. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeks ahead!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your meal, consider serving this dish with a side salad or some crusty bread. A fresh green salad can help balance the richness of the chicken and rice, while bread provides a perfect vehicle for soaking up the creamy sauce.
For a bit of brightness, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions before serving. This not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully. Your family will love the extra touch!
Nutritional Information
This creamy dish can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Each serving provides a good source of protein, thanks to the chicken, while the rice and vegetables contribute essential carbohydrates and nutrients. If you’re looking to reduce calories or fat, consider using low-fat cream of chicken soup and adjusting portion sizes.
Additionally, incorporating more vegetables can enhance the nutritional profile, providing fiber and vitamins. By making small adjustments, you can enjoy this comforting meal while still keeping your health goals in check.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice usually takes longer to cook.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a side salad.
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but cooking time may need to be increased.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Enjoy a comforting and delicious meal with this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice. It's perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please the whole family.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Comfort Classics
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 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 mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread the rice evenly over the chicken and then pour the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth over the top.
Add the frozen mixed vegetables on top, gently pressing them into the mixture.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix everything together. Serve warm and enjoy!
Extra Tips
For added flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g