Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

A cozy kitchen filled with the aroma of bubbling cheese and savory chicken creates a scene that could make even the most stoic of hearts flutter. Imagine a dish where tender chicken meets fluffy rice in a creamy sauce; it’s like a warm hug from your grandma on a chilly winter evening. This Chicken and Rice Casserole is not just food; it’s an experience that brings families together.

You might picture this dish as the star of your next potluck or perhaps a comforting supper after a long day at work. With every bite, you’ll be reminded of home-cooked meals that warm your soul. So grab your apron because we’re about to embark on a delicious culinary journey.

Family gatherings always bring out the best reactions when I serve this casserole; it never fails to elicit smiles and happy sighs.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 breasts depending on how hungry your crowd is.
• Long-Grain White Rice: This type cooks evenly in the oven, absorbing all those delightful flavors.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over the saltiness in your dish.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess without needing extra ingredients or steps.
• Fresh Vegetables (like peas and carrots): Feel free to toss in whatever veggies you have; they add color and nutrition.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top gives a beautiful golden crust that everyone loves.
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder): These elevate the flavor profile—don’t skip them.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray.

Prepare the Chicken: Season the boneless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning will lock in flavor as they bake.

Mix It All Up: In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice with chicken broth and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until well mixed so every grain gets coated.

Add Vegetables and Chicken: Fold in your chosen vegetables into the mixture before placing seasoned chicken breasts on top. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.

Bake Until Perfectly Cooked: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for about 1 hour or until the chicken is cooked through—no one likes raw poultry.

Add Cheese Topping: Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking; sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over everything. Allow it to melt into gooey perfection while getting slightly crispy.

This delectable concoction will fill your kitchen with an aroma that makes waiting hard. Your family won’t be able to resist coming back for more once they get a taste of this creamy delight.

Enjoy making memories over this Chicken and Rice Casserole. It’s not just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the dinner table together—where good food meets great company.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter, adding chicken until golden. Then mix in rice, broth, and seasonings before baking to perfection. This sequence ensures every ingredient shines without losing flavor.

Add Your Touch

Experiment with different veggies like peas or bell peppers to add color and nutrients. You can also swap chicken for turkey or add cheese for a creamy twist that elevates the dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring the casserole remains moist.

Sharing a meal of chicken and rice casserole always brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and everyone asked for seconds.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or use gluten-free broth for flavor.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost that enhances taste.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

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Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting and effortless one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and flavorful seasonings. Perfect for busy days, this slow cooker recipe allows you to set it and forget it while the dish cooks to perfection. It’s a simple, hearty, and family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy.

 

• Author: Mason Recipes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5–6 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6 hours (maximum)
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dish:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
   • Lightly grease the slow cooker with non-stick spray or use a liner for easy cleanup.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
   • Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
   • Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and frozen peas and carrots (if using) on top of the chicken.
3. Add Rice and Liquid:
   • Sprinkle the uncooked rice evenly over the chicken.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup until smooth. Pour this mixture over the rice and chicken.
4. Cook the Dish:
   • Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
   • Avoid opening the lid during cooking to ensure proper cooking of the rice and chicken.
5. Check for Doneness:
   • Once the cooking time is complete, check the chicken (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
   • Stir the rice to combine everything and check if it is fully cooked. If the rice is slightly undercooked, add a splash of chicken broth and cook for an additional 15–20 minutes.
6. Add Cheese (Optional):
   • For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the dish in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Cover and allow the cheese to melt.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once cooked, stir everything together and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of sour cream for extra flavor.

Notes

• You can use brown rice instead of white rice, but it will require additional cooking time and more liquid.
• For added flavor, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• If you prefer a creamier dish, mix in some sour cream or heavy cream before serving.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

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