Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy rice for a satisfying meal.
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to come home to a warm and delicious meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that envelops each bite
- Perfectly seasoned chicken that melts in your mouth
- A one-pot meal that makes cleanup a breeze
A Comforting Classic
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or for serving guests who appreciate home-cooked goodness. The slow cooker infuses the chicken with flavors that develop gradually, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. As the rice cooks alongside the chicken, it absorbs all the delicious flavors, creating a rich and creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Whether you prefer green beans, corn, or even broccoli, this dish readily welcomes substitutions. This adaptability makes it a favorite among families who enjoy experimenting with their meals.
Effortless Preparation
One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal prep time, you can throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. This makes it an excellent choice for those hectic days when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The only chopping required is for the onion and garlic, which enhances the flavor profile without overwhelming your schedule.
Additionally, the one-pot nature of this meal means minimal cleanup. After enjoying a hearty dinner, you won’t be faced with piles of dishes and cookware. Simply remove the insert from the slow cooker, and you’re done. This convenience is a game-changer for busy households or anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is an ideal candidate for meal prep. By making a larger batch, you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Store individual portions in airtight containers for quick and easy lunches or dinners. Reheating is a breeze, and the flavors only get better as they meld together over time, making this dish even more delicious the next day.
Moreover, this recipe freezes beautifully. If you find yourself with extra servings, simply portion them out and freeze for a later date. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal again, just defrost and reheat. This method not only saves time but also helps reduce food waste, making it a win-win for both your schedule and your wallet.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before cooking.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In the slow cooker, place the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken breasts. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Add Rice and Liquids
Pour the rice, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth over the chicken. Stir to combine.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
Finish with Vegetables
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas and carrots, stirring to combine.
Serve
Once done, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix everything together before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice!
Nutritional Benefits
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken breasts are a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Pairing it with rice provides a good carbohydrate source to keep your energy levels up throughout the day, making this meal a well-rounded option for any time.
Incorporating vegetables like peas and carrots adds essential vitamins and minerals to the dish. Peas are rich in fiber, which aids digestion, while carrots are high in beta carotene, promoting eye health. This combination ensures you are not only satisfying your taste buds but also nourishing your body.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice, consider serving it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread. A simple side of mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, a slice of garlic bread can be perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.
For a touch of elegance, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the top before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal of your dish but also adds a burst of fresh flavor. Pairing it with a glass of white wine can also elevate your dining experience, making it suitable for special occasions or cozy dinners at home.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or corn.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy rice for a satisfying meal.
Created by: Katherine Blake
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
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
How-To Steps
In the slow cooker, place the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken breasts. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Pour the rice, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth over the chicken. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas and carrots, stirring to combine.
Once done, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix everything together before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 28g