Looking for a warm, hearty meal that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Recipe is the answer! Combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and flavorful vegetables, this one-pot dish is a favorite for families and busy individuals alike. Simply toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss.
Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.
Total Time Breakdown
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Layering Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
- Checking Time: 10 minutes
- Serving Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 4-6 hours 30 minutes (on low) or 2-3 hours 30 minutes (on high)
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
You will need the following ingredients to make this comforting dish:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions for Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
1. Prep the Ingredients (10 minutes)
Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients:
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Measure out the rice, chicken broth, and spices.
Tip: You can use pre-chopped frozen onions and garlic for even quicker prep.
2. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker (5 minutes)
In your slow cooker:
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and frozen mixed vegetables.
- Sprinkle the rice evenly over the top.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme, paprika, black pepper, salt, and bay leaf.
Tip: For added flavor, you can sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
3. Cook the Chicken and Rice (4-6 hours)
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and the rice tender.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as it releases heat and prolongs cooking time.
4. Check for Doneness (10 minutes)
After the cooking time:
- Remove the lid and check that the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- If the chicken is done, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker or transfer it to a cutting board to shred.
5. Stir and Serve (5 minutes)
- Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
- Gently stir the chicken back into the rice and vegetables.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Your Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is now ready to enjoy! This dish is comforting on its own, but you can enhance it further by serving with:
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping
- Steamed vegetables for extra nutrition
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
- Use Bone-In Chicken: For extra flavor, try using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Just remove the skin before serving if you prefer.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for added nutrition.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in 1/2 cup of cream cheese or sour cream at the end of cooking for a creamy version of this dish.
- Adjust the Rice: If you prefer a drier dish, you can reduce the amount of chicken broth to 1.5 cups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Use 2.5 cups of chicken broth and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
2. Can I add beans to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add a can of drained and rinsed beans, such as black beans or cannellini beans, for added protein and fiber.
3. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! You can place frozen chicken directly in the slow cooker. Just ensure it cooks for at least 6-8 hours on low to ensure it’s fully cooked.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Recipe is the perfect solution for a quick, satisfying meal any day of the week. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can have a delicious, wholesome dinner ready to enjoy.
Give it a try, and you’ll have a new go-to recipe that the whole family will love!
