Crock Pot Chicken and Rice: Easy, Creamy Comfort Food
When you need a meal that’s simple, hearty, and family-friendly, Crock Pot Chicken and Rice is a perfect choice. This classic dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, savory sauce, all slow-cooked together for maximum flavor with minimal effort.
It’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy dinners, and it uses everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand. Just add everything to the slow cooker, set it, and come back to a warm, satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Hands-off cooking: Let the crock pot do the work
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Comfort food classic: Creamy, filling, and satisfying
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Family-friendly: Mild flavors everyone enjoys
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One-pot meal: Less cleanup, more convenience
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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1½ lb (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
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3 cups chicken broth
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1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of chicken soup
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1 small onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried parsley
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½ teaspoon paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
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½ cup milk or cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crock Pot
Lightly grease the inside of your crock pot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Add Ingredients
Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley. Add onion and garlic on top.
3. Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Pour over the chicken.
4. Cook
Cover and cook on:
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Low: 4–5 hours
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High: 2–3 hours
Chicken should be fully cooked and tender.
5. Add Rice
Remove chicken and shred or cut into bite-sized pieces. Return chicken to the crock pot. Stir in uncooked rice and optional vegetables.
Cover and cook on high for 45–60 minutes, stirring once or twice, until rice is tender.
6. Finish and Serve
Stir in milk or cream if using. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Rice
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Use long-grain white rice for best texture
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Stir rice halfway through cooking to prevent clumping
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Add a splash of broth if rice becomes too thick
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Chicken thighs stay extra juicy, but breasts work well too
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Avoid instant rice—it can become mushy
Variations
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Cheesy Chicken and Rice: Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella at the end
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Veggie-Packed: Add carrots, broccoli, or corn
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Herb Version: Add thyme or rosemary for extra flavor
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Lighter Option: Use low-fat soup and milk instead of cream
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a simple green salad
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Pair with steamed vegetables or roasted broccoli
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Add crusty bread or dinner rolls for a complete meal
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days
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Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth
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Not ideal for freezing, as rice can become mushy
Why This Recipe Works
Slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and flavorful, while the rice absorbs the creamy broth, creating a comforting, cohesive dish. Cooking the rice later prevents overcooking and ensures the perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Chicken and Rice is the definition of easy comfort food. It’s warm, creamy, filling, and made with simple ingredients, making it perfect for families, beginners, or anyone craving a cozy homemade meal.