Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Slow cooking makes the chicken tender and juicy, while the rice absorbs the broth and seasonings. Finished with melted cheddar cheese, this one-pot dish feels like a warm hug on a plate.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you want a meal that’s simple but satisfying. With very little prep, you can just add everything to the slow cooker and let it do the work. You can also customize it with different veggies, rice, or seasonings to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Directions
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add uncooked rice and pour in chicken broth.
- Stir in all seasonings and cream of chicken soup.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is done and rice is soft.
- Remove chicken, shred it with two forks, then put it back in the slow cooker.
- Add cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot with parsley or green onions on top.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Calories: 420 kcal | Servings: 6
Why This Recipe Works
This dish is a family favorite because it’s simple, filling, and delicious. The slow cooker saves time, the chicken comes out tender, and the cheese makes everything creamy. It’s also easy to adjust for your taste or diet.
A Bit of Background
Chicken and rice has been a classic comfort food for decades. In the mid-1900s, when the Crock Pot became popular, recipes like this one made life easier for busy families. The “set it and forget it” method made it possible to enjoy a hot, home-cooked dinner without standing in the kitchen for hours.
What Makes It Special
- Easy prep—only 10 minutes of work.
- Creamy and cheesy, thanks to soup and cheddar.
- Customizable—add veggies, swap rice, or make it spicier.
- Budget-friendly with simple ingredients.
- One pot means less cleanup.
Health Benefits in Every Bite
Even though this dish is creamy, it still has nutritional value:
- Lean protein from chicken.
- Carbs and energy from rice.
- Calcium and protein from cheese.
- More vitamins if you add vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or spinach.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This recipe makes great leftovers and reheats well. You can store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze portions for later. The flavors even get better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
Who Will Love This Dish
- Busy families who need quick meals
- College students who want comfort food without extra work
- Meal preppers looking for freezer-friendly options
- Anyone new to using a slow cooker
- Picky eaters—because it’s kid-friendly and delicious
Serving Suggestions
You can serve this dish on its own or pair it with:
- A green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed or roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Fresh herbs, yogurt, or hot sauce for extra flavor
Conclusion
Crock Pot Chicken and Rice is the perfect mix of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. It’s creamy, cheesy, and filling yet easy enough for anyone to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping, or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Let your slow cooker do the work and enjoy comfort food at its best.
