Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

Name: Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn); 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the delightful flavors of Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice, a dish that's both comforting and easy to prepare.

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:13:12.210Z

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is the perfect weeknight dinner that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy your day!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that satisfies your cravings
Convenient one-pot meal that's perfect for busy days
Flavorful blend of spices and tender chicken

      

The Comfort of One-Pot Meals

One-pot meals have a special place in the hearts of home cooks everywhere. They're not only easy to prepare, but they also minimize cleanup time, making them a favorite for busy families. This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is the epitome of comfort food, combining hearty ingredients and rich flavors in a single dish. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends when you want to enjoy a satisfying meal without the hassle.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few steps, you can create a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring that every bite is infused with the delicious essence of chicken, rice, and spices. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your family's tastes.

Nutritional Benefits

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice isn't just comforting; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The addition of mixed vegetables introduces vitamins and minerals, making this dish a well-rounded meal. Frozen veggies are an excellent option because they're picked at their peak ripeness and retain their nutrients, ensuring that you're serving your family a wholesome dish.

The use of whole grains, like long-grain white rice, offers carbohydrates that provide energy. While it's a creamy dish, the recipe can be adjusted to be lighter by using low-fat cream of chicken soup or omitting the cheese. This way, you can enjoy the indulgent flavors without compromising on health.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different rice varieties or add spices that you love. A dash of curry powder, for instance, could create a delightful twist, while adding red pepper flakes can introduce a bit of heat for spice lovers.

This recipe is also a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables or proteins you have on hand. Toss in any extras you’d like, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or even cooked sausage, to make the dish uniquely yours. The slow cooker allows these flavors to blend seamlessly, creating a dish that feels both familiar and exciting.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Mix well before cooking!

Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker

Spray the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Combine the Ingredients

Place the chicken breasts, rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, frozen vegetables, onion, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Cook the Dish

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Add Cheese (Optional)

In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the shredded cheddar cheese if desired, then cover to allow it to melt.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix everything together before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice!

Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing leftovers from your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is easy and convenient. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers, where it can last for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it creamy and prevent it from drying out. This way, you can savor the delicious flavors of this dish even days after it was first cooked.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish. You might also enjoy roasted asparagus or green beans on the side for an additional burst of color and nutrients.

If you're looking for a beverage to complement your meal, a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the creamy flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime to cleanse your palate between bites. These pairings will elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable.

Tips for Perfect Results

For the best results with your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice, ensure that your chicken breasts are of uniform size. This will help them cook evenly throughout the cooking process. If you find that your dish is too thick once it's done, feel free to stir in a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Another tip is to avoid lifting the lid too often while cooking, as this can release heat and extend the cooking time. Trust the slow cooker to do its job! Lastly, don’t rush the shredding process at the end—taking your time to shred the chicken ensures it integrates well with the rice and sauce, creating that creamy texture you crave.

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.

→ How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can use low-fat cream of chicken soup and add more vegetables for extra nutrition.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.