Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice

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Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice

A comforting, family-friendly slow cooker meal made with tender chicken, creamy rice, and melted cheese. This recipe is simple to prep, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy days when you want a warm, satisfying dinner with minimal effort.

 Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice

  • 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby-Jack, or a blend)

  • 1 small onion, diced (optional)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil (optional, for extra richness)

 Instructions

  1. Layer ingredients
    Add uncooked rice to the bottom of the crockpot. Place chicken breasts on top. Sprinkle with seasonings, onion, and garlic.

  2. Add liquid
    Pour chicken broth evenly over the chicken and rice. Add butter or olive oil if using.

  3. Cook
    Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5 to 6 hours, until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

  4. Shred & mix
    Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return it to the crockpot. Stir well.

  5. Add cheese
    Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover and cook an additional 10 to 15 minutes until melted.

  6. Serve
    Stir one final time and serve warm.

 Notes

  • Rice absorbs liquid differently depending on brand. Add ¼ to ½ cup extra broth if needed.

  • For creamier texture, stir in ¼ cup sour cream or cream cheese at the end.

  • Best served fresh but reheats well.

 Tips for Success

  • Use long-grain white rice only. Brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking.

  • Shred chicken while hot for easiest texture.

  • Spray crockpot with nonstick spray for easy cleanup.

  • Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat.

 Servings

  • Serves: 6

  • Serving Size: About 1¼ cups

 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 420

  • Protein: 38g

  • Carbohydrates: 32g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sodium: 620mg

Benefits

  • High in protein for muscle support

  • One-pot meal saves time and dishes

  • Budget-friendly and customizable

  • Kid-approved comfort food

  • Easily adaptable for meal prep

Q & A

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but increase cooking time by 1 hour and ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Absolutely. Peas, carrots, broccoli, or corn work well. Add during the last hour.

Q: What cheese works best?
A: Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack also work.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes, just confirm your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

 

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