The Best Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dinner that practically cooks itself, this crock pot chicken and rice recipe is exactly what you need. It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor, yet it requires minimal effort. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker, let it work its magic, and come home to a cozy meal the whole family will love.
What makes this dish stand out is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just need a fuss-free dinner option, chicken and rice in the crock pot checks all the boxes. You’ll get tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a creamy, savory flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the ultimate crock pot chicken and rice recipe—step-by-step instructions, tips, variations, and even storage ideas so nothing goes to waste.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Before we dive into the ingredients, let’s talk about why this recipe deserves a spot in your weeknight rotation:
- Hands-off cooking – The crock pot does all the heavy lifting, freeing up your time.
- Comfort food classic – Chicken and rice is a timeless combination that never disappoints.
- One-pot meal – No need for multiple pans. Everything cooks in the crock pot.
- Family-friendly – Mild flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults.
- Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable pantry staples.
It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish. Don’t worry if you’re missing something—I’ll share some easy substitutions later.
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3–4 pieces)
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (optional but adds depth)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup parmesan cheese (for extra flavor)
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect crock pot chicken and rice recipe every time:
Step 1: Prep the Crock Pot
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a little butter. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Spread the chopped onion and minced garlic evenly across the bottom of the crock pot. This creates a flavorful base that will infuse the rice and chicken as they cook.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and garlic powder. Place them on top of the onions and garlic.
Step 4: Mix the Liquids
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, milk, cream of chicken soup, and cream of mushroom soup until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the crock pot.
Step 5: Add the Rice
Sprinkle the uncooked rice around the chicken, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Gently press the rice down into the liquid but don’t stir too much—you want it submerged so it cooks properly.
Step 6: Cook Low and Slow
Cover with the lid and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 2 ½–3 hours. The rice should be tender, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Shred and Stir
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir everything together until well combined.
Step 8: Add Cheese and Vegetables
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. If using peas, carrots, or broccoli, add them now and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes so the vegetables warm through.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the creamy chicken and rice onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Making chicken and rice in the crock pot is simple, but these tips will help you take it to the next level:
- Don’t overcook the rice – Every crock pot heats a little differently, so check around the 5-hour mark if cooking on low. If the rice is tender, switch the slow cooker to “warm.”
- Use long-grain rice – Short-grain rice tends to get mushy. Long-grain white rice holds up best in this recipe.
- Avoid adding too much liquid – The crock pot naturally traps steam, so don’t be tempted to add extra broth.
- Stir at the end, not during cooking – Lifting the lid too often releases heat and can affect how evenly the rice cooks.
- Cheese at the end – Adding cheese too early can make it oily or grainy, so stir it in right before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
Don’t worry if you don’t have every ingredient on hand—this recipe is flexible. Here are some easy swaps:
- Chicken breasts → Chicken thighs: Thighs stay juicy and are less likely to dry out.
- Cream soups → Homemade sauce: If you prefer, make a quick roux with butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk.
- Cheddar cheese → Mozzarella or Monterey Jack: Different cheeses give different flavors.
- White rice → Brown rice: Works too, but increase cook time by 1–2 hours.
- Milk → Half-and-half or heavy cream: For an even creamier texture.
- Vegetables: Use green beans, corn, or zucchini instead of peas and carrots.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic crock pot chicken and rice recipe, try these fun twists:
- Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and top with salsa and avocado.
- Italian Style: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, add Italian seasoning, and stir in spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Spicy Cajun: Add Cajun seasoning, bell peppers, and a little andouille sausage.
- Healthy Version: Use brown rice, chicken thighs, and plenty of vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice: Stir in a full cup of broccoli and an extra cup of cheese for a casserole-like dish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This recipe makes a generous batch, so leftovers are likely—and that’s a good thing. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Alternatively, reheat in a covered skillet on the stove over low heat.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5–6 hours on low (or 2 ½–3 hours on high)
- Total Time: About 6 hours
- Servings: 6 hearty portions
Why This Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe Works Every Time
What makes this recipe so reliable is the balance of flavors and textures. The slow cooking method ensures the chicken becomes fork-tender while the rice absorbs all the savory broth and creamy sauce. Adding cheese at the end ties everything together into a rich, comforting dish.
It’s also a forgiving recipe. You can swap ingredients, adjust seasonings, or sneak in extra veggies, and it still turns out delicious. That’s why many home cooks consider crock pot chicken and rice a “set it and forget it” favorite.
Conclusion (Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe)
When it comes to easy weeknight dinners, nothing beats the comfort and simplicity of a crock pot chicken and rice recipe. It brings together the heartiness of tender chicken, the creaminess of rice cooked in savory broth, and the convenience of a slow cooker that does the work for you. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner cook, or someone who simply loves a no-fuss dinner, this dish delivers on flavor and comfort every single time.
One of the best things about this crock pot chicken and rice recipe is its adaptability. You can keep it classic with just chicken, rice, and creamy sauce, or you can switch things up by adding vegetables, experimenting with different cheeses, or even spicing it up with bold seasonings. No matter how you make it, it always turns into a meal that feels homemade, wholesome, and deeply satisfying.
And let’s not forget the practicality—this recipe makes generous portions that store and reheat beautifully, so it’s perfect for leftovers or meal prepping ahead of time. With one batch, you can feed your family tonight and still have easy lunches or dinners ready to go later in the week.
If you’ve been searching for a go-to slow cooker meal that checks every box—easy to make, budget-friendly, versatile, and crowd-pleasing—look no further. This crock pot chicken and rice recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Give it a try, and I guarantee it will earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
