Crockpot Chicken and Rice

Looking for a warm, hearty, and low-effort meal the whole family will love? This Crockpot Chicken and Rice recipe is a wholesome comfort food classic. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, flavorful base, it’s the perfect one-pot dinner you can throw together in the morning and forget about until mealtime.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Set It and Forget It – The crockpot does all the heavy lifting.
Comfort in a Bowl – Creamy, tender, and deeply satisfying.
Family-Friendly – Mild and flavorful enough for all ages.
Versatile – Easily customized with vegetables, spices, or cheese.
Meal Prep Approved – Makes great leftovers for the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Main Dish:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 thighs)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• ½ cup celery, diced (optional)
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried parsley or thyme

For Creamy Finish (Added at the End):

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (brightens the flavor)

Optional Add-Ins & Toppings:

• 1 cup frozen peas (add in last 30 minutes)
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Grated Parmesan for extra richness

Tools You’ll Need
Slow cooker (crockpot)
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Fork or spoon for shredding chicken
Mixing bowl for creamy finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Add Ingredients to Crockpot

1. Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Top with rice, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
3. Pour in chicken broth and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried herbs.

Step 2: Cook on Low or High

1. Cover and cook on Low for 5–6 hours or High for 2½–3½ hours.
2. Don’t open the lid frequently to keep heat and moisture in.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

1. When the rice is cooked and chicken is tender, remove chicken breasts.
2. Shred with two forks and return to the crockpot.
3. Stir to combine evenly.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

1. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt or sour cream with lemon juice and optional cheese.
2. Stir into the crockpot gently until well combined.
3. Add frozen peas now if using, and let cook 10–15 minutes more.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Spoon into bowls and top with chopped parsley or extra cheese.
2. Serve with a green salad or crusty bread on the side.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Rinse the Rice – Helps prevent clumping or mushiness.
Use Long-Grain White Rice – It holds its shape better in slow cooking.
Stir Gently – Especially after the rice is cooked, to avoid breaking it.
Add Dairy at the End – Prevents curdling and keeps it creamy.
Taste and Adjust – Add more lemon juice, salt, or herbs before serving.

Serving Suggestions
With a Side Salad – A light mixed greens salad balances the richness.
With Steamed Veggies – Broccoli or green beans are great choices.
As a Complete Bowl – Add chopped avocado or a soft-boiled egg for extra nutrition.
With Garlic Bread – Dip into the creamy mixture for cozy vibes.
Topped with Hot Sauce – Add a kick if you like heat.

How to Store & Reheat

Store:
Cool and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze:
Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat:
Microwave: Heat on medium in 60-second intervals, stirring in between.
Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to rehydrate.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown rice?
   Brown rice takes longer to cook and may not soften properly. Pre-cook it and stir it in at the end if you prefer.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Absolutely! Thighs stay juicy and shred beautifully.
3. How do I make this dairy-free?
   Simply omit the yogurt/cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
4. Can I cook this overnight?
   Yes, set it on low and keep it warm until morning. Stir in creamy ingredients just before serving.

Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Chicken and Rice is everything you want in a cozy meal: hearty, flavorful, and practically effortless. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for the week ahead, it’s a go-to recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Just set it, forget it, and enjoy every creamy, comforting spoonful!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 hours on Low or 2.5–3.5 hours on High
Total Time: About 6 hours
Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1 of 6):
Calories: 380 | Protein: 28g | Carbs: 35g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 480mg

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