This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that cooks itself! With juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and tasty seasonings, it’s perfect for busy days.
You just pop everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic! I love how I can enjoy a warm meal with minimal effort. It’s like having a chef at home! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Long-Grain White Rice: This rice cooks well and stays fluffy. If you need a substitute, use brown rice; just increase the cooking time and broth by a bit. Quinoa is also a nice alternative for a gluten-free option!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are great for this recipe as they’re easy to shred. Chicken thighs add extra flavor and moisture, so feel free to swap if you prefer. If you’re vegetarian, consider using veggies like mushrooms or a can of chickpeas.
Chicken Broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought is perfectly fine. For lower sodium, you can use low-sodium broth or even water with a seasoning mix. Vegetable broth is a great substitute for a veggie version.
Cheddar Cheese: I love adding cheese for a creamy finish! If you’re avoiding dairy, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or omit it altogether. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick!
How Do I Ensure Perfect Rice in the Crockpot?
Getting rice just right in a crockpot can be tricky but absolutely doable! Start by rinsing the rice to remove excess starch, which helps prevent clumping. Be sure to follow the liquid ratio (2 cups broth for 2 cups rice) to keep it fluffy.
- Layer rice at the bottom; it soaks up the flavor from the broth and chicken.
- Always let the dish rest a bit after cooking before removing the lid. This helps the steam finish cooking the rice.
- If using brown rice, add an extra half-cup of broth and increase cooking time by about an hour.
These tips will help you enjoy a delicious, perfectly cooked chicken and rice dish every time! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and cooks for 4 to 5 hours on LOW or 2 to 3 hours on HIGH. You can set it and forget it, making this the perfect meal for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by spraying the crockpot insert with non-stick spray or brushing it lightly with olive oil or butter. This helps prevent the rice from sticking during cooking.
2. Rinse the Rice:
Rinse the uncooked long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch. Once rinsed, drain it well.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Now, add the rinsed rice to the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the rice. Next, place the whole chicken breasts (or thighs) right on top of the rice.
4. Season It Up:
Sprinkle the chopped onion, minced garlic, dried parsley, thyme, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken and rice mixture. This adds lots of flavor!
5. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for about 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and the rice tender.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks.
7. Combine:
Stir the shredded chicken back into the rice mixture, mixing to combine everything well.
8. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover the crockpot, and let it melt for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
9. Serve:
Garnish your dish with fresh parsley for a nice touch and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious crockpot chicken and rice meal!
FAQ: Easy Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just note that it will require a bit more cooking time and additional broth. Increase the cooking time by 1 hour, and add an extra half-cup of broth to ensure it cooks well.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just layer the ingredients in the crockpot in the morning and start cooking while you’re at work or busy with other tasks!
What Vegetables Can I Add for Extra Nutrition?
Feel free to add veggies like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in with the chicken and broth, and they’ll cook perfectly alongside the dish!
