Crockpot Chicken and Rice

Name: Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds chicken breast (boneless and skinless); 1 cup rice (uncooked); 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium); 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 0.5 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

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By: Maria
Posted: 05/16/2025

Crockpot Chicken and rice is a delightful dish combining convenience with flavor, making it an ideal dinner choice for busy weeknights. This comforting meal is cooked slowly, allowing the ingredients to meld together perfectly, creating a savory delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Crockpot Chicken and Rice Final Dish Presentation

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Years ago, I stumbled upon this gem of a recipe while trying to prepare a fuss-free meal for a family gathering. My grandmother used to say this dish reminded her of her cozy dinners back home, full of warmth and loved ones around the table. Every time I make this, it brings back those cherished memories, making it more than just a meal but a family tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crockpot meal is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. You’ll love how easy it is to toss everything into the crockpot without needing constant supervision, making it perfect for busy individuals. The result is a savory and wholesome dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using everyday ingredients that pack a punch. You’ll need chicken breasts or thighs, which remain juicy and tender after cooking. Arborio rice is recommended for a creamy texture, though regular white rice works too. Fresh vegetables like carrots and celery add a healthful touch.

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Recipe Steps

Step 1

Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. Feel free to add a dash of your favorite herbs for added flavor.

Step 2

In the crockpot, layer the rice evenly at the bottom, then add the vegetables like diced carrots and celery on top.

Step 3

Place the seasoned chicken over the veggies. This allows the juices to infuse into the rice and vegetables.

Step 4

Pour in chicken broth until everything is just covered. Stir gently to ensure even distribution of ingredients.

Step 5

Set the crockpot to low and cook for about 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Storage Options

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For extended storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags. To reheat, thaw overnight and warm in a skillet, adding a bit of chicken broth to restore moisture.

Variations & Substitutions

For a vegetarian version, swap chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth. To spice things up, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or use a cajun seasoning blend. Quinoa can replace rice for a protein-rich alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish on cold winter nights, paired with a side salad for a light contrast. It’s perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting dish after a long day at work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Incorporate diced jalapeños or hot sauce to kick up the heat. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences while still enjoying the dish’s original flavors.

What should I do if my rice is still hard after cooking?
If the rice isn’t fully cooked, add an additional half cup of broth and continue cooking on low for another 30 to 45 minutes. Stir well to distribute the moisture evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the Crockpot Chicken and Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Crockpot Chicken and Rice ahead of time. You can prep all the ingredients, layer them in the crockpot, and store the crockpot insert (with the uncooked ingredients) in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, cook the dish and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage, allowing for easy reheating later.

What are some good ingredient substitutions for the Crockpot Chicken and Rice?

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with an equal amount (about 1.5 cups) of chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you don’t have Arborio rice, you can substitute regular white rice, but you might need to adjust the broth slightly, using a little less. Quinoa can also replace the rice for a protein-rich option, use the same amount as the rice, and monitor cooking time as quinoa cooks faster.

How do I know when the Crockpot Chicken and Rice is perfectly cooked?

The chicken is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink inside, and easily shreds with a fork. The rice should be tender and fully cooked, not crunchy. The vegetables should be soft but still hold their shape. Aromatic cues include a savory smell of cooked chicken and vegetables.

Can I double or scale up the Crockpot Chicken and Rice recipe?

Yes, you can double this recipe, but ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. If doubling, you might need to increase the cooking time by about 30-60 minutes, checking the chicken’s internal temperature and rice tenderness. Adjust the amount of broth as needed to ensure everything is covered. For scaling up significantly, consider using two crockpots to avoid overcrowding.

What is the nutritional value of Crockpot Chicken and Rice?

This dish provides a good source of protein from the chicken, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The rice offers carbohydrates for energy, and the vegetables (carrots and celery) contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The chicken broth adds hydration and additional nutrients. This meal is a balanced option, providing several essential nutrients and is a comforting, wholesome meal.

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Crockpot Chicken and Rice

This Crockpot Chicken and Rice recipe is a simple and delicious one-pot meal perfect for busy dinners.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 pounds chicken breast boneless and skinless
1 cup rice uncooked
2 cups chicken broth low-sodium
1 teaspoon salt to taste
0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
Add rice, chicken broth, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
Shred the chicken with two forks and stir the ingredients together before serving.