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, perfect for a family dinner.
This creamy slow cooker chicken and rice recipe is an ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it's sure to become a family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms the soul
- Minimal effort with maximum flavor
- Perfectly cooked chicken that falls apart
- One-pot meal for easy cleanup
A Comforting Family Favorite
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal; it's a warm hug on a plate. This dish is ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice come together to create a delightful harmony of flavors that your entire family will love.
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. With minimal prep time, you can toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, while the rice absorbs all the delicious juices, resulting in a comforting dish that feels like home.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a casual family dinner or need a comforting meal for a gathering, this creamy chicken and rice dish fits the bill perfectly. It's a versatile recipe that can be served as a standalone meal or paired with a fresh salad for a more balanced feast. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables for picky eaters.
Another advantage of this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily swap out the mixed vegetables for whatever you have on hand, making it a great option for using up leftover ingredients. This flexibility not only saves you money but also allows you to customize the dish to suit your family's preferences.
Easy Cleanup
One of the best aspects of this recipe is the one-pot convenience. Cooking in a slow cooker means fewer dishes and less mess to deal with after your meal. Simply serve directly from the slow cooker, and you’ll have more time to spend with your loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen doing dishes.
Additionally, leftovers can be stored easily and reheated for a quick lunch the next day. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the leftovers just as delicious, if not better, than the first serving. This easy cleanup and delicious taste make Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice a win-win for any home cook.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting the slow cooker.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the Rice and Soup
Sprinkle the rice over the chicken, then pour the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth on top.
Season and Add Vegetables
Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
Serve
Shred the chicken with two forks and stir everything together before serving.
Enjoy your delicious creamy chicken and rice!
Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This guarantees that your meal is safe to eat while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. Using a meat thermometer can help you avoid overcooking, which can lead to dry chicken.
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before cooking. These herbs can infuse the dish with a lovely aroma and taste, elevating the overall experience. You can also experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice, but be mindful that cooking times may vary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice with a side of crusty bread or warm rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. A light green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
For a complete meal, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli. This not only adds color to your plate but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal, making it both satisfying and wholesome.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the chicken and rice in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If it seems dry, a splash of chicken broth can help restore its creaminess.
For longer storage, consider freezing leftovers. Portion them into individual servings and freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags. When you're ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above for a satisfying meal ready in minutes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
→ Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken without thawing, just ensure it cooks thoroughly.
→ What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom soup or make your own homemade cream sauce.
→ How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix for some heat.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy rice, perfect for a family dinner.
Created by: Erin Wallace
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Sprinkle the rice over the chicken, then pour the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth on top.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
Shred the chicken with two forks and stir everything together before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 56g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g