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slow cooker chicken and rice recipe

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

Megan FosterMegan Foster
A delightful creamy chicken and rice dish prepared effortlessly in a slow cooker, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 slow cooker 4-quart or larger
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 fork for shredding chicken

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Rinse rice under cold water to remove extra starch.
  • Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Add rice, onion, and garlic on top, followed by chicken broth and heavy cream.
  • Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4-5 hours until chicken is tender and rice is cooked.

Serving

  • Once done, remove chicken and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the cooker and stir.
  • Stir in optional add-ins like peas, mushrooms, or Parmesan, if desired, and cook for another 10 minutes.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese.

Storage

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use heavy cream for the best texture. Avoid opening the slow cooker often. Experiment with herbs for flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free option.
How to Serve: Pair with a fresh salad or crusty bread. Garnish with parsley.
Storage & Freshness: Store in airtight containers. Reheat with extra broth.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prep ingredients ahead and store in fridge. Assemble in cooker when ready to cook.
Keyword crockpot chicken and rice, easy chicken dinner, slow cooker chicken and rice