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, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
This comforting dish is a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights. Just set it and forget it!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that warms your soul
- Minimal prep time and hands-free cooking
- Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep
The Comfort of Home-Cooked Meals
There's something inherently comforting about a home-cooked meal, and Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is no exception. This dish evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Perfect for any time of year, this dish shines during chilly seasons when you crave something hearty. The creamy texture combined with the tender chicken and fluffy rice makes it an ideal choice for both a family dinner and a potluck gathering. When comfort food is on the menu, this recipe never disappoints.
Meal Prep Made Easy
In today's fast-paced world, meal prepping is a game-changer. Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is an excellent option for those who want to save time without sacrificing flavor. You can prepare this dish ahead of time, allowing you to serve a wholesome meal even on the busiest days. Just set your slow cooker in the morning and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat dinner.
Not only does this recipe simplify dinner time, but it also provides you with leftovers that can be enjoyed for lunch the next day. Simply store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and you'll have a satisfying meal waiting for you, making this dish perfect for both families and individuals alike.
Customizing Your Recipe
One of the best aspects of Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is its versatility. Feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. You can swap out the chicken for turkey or use a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. Additionally, try incorporating different vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or corn to add a variety of colors and flavors.
Seasoning is another area where you can get creative. If you love a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, herbs like rosemary or oregano can provide a different aromatic profile, allowing you to make this dish your own.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting!
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
Combine in Slow Cooker
In the slow cooker, add the chicken, rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, peas and carrots, onion, garlic, and thyme. Stir to combine.
Cook the Dish
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Serve
Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice!
Let the dish cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Perfect Results
For the best results, always use high-quality chicken broth to enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought varieties can also work well. Just ensure they are low-sodium to control the saltiness of your meal.
Consider using a meat thermometer to check the chicken's doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. This ensures that your chicken remains juicy and tender, contributing to the dish's creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your meal with a few simple side dishes. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken beautifully. Additionally, crusty bread or garlic knots can be served on the side for a satisfying crunch.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider serving a side of spicy pickles or jalapeños to contrast the creaminess of the dish. These additions create a delightful balance of flavors, making your dinner experience even more enjoyable.
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 prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator.
→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or crusty bread.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy rice, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Created by: Amelia Grant
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
In the slow cooker, add the chicken, rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, peas and carrots, onion, garlic, and thyme. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g