Easy Crockpot Chicken and Rice

There's nothing quite like coming home to the comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal after a long day. This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Rice is the perfect solution for busy weeknights—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor.

I first started making this dish when I needed a foolproof, no-fuss dinner that my whole family would love. Now, it’s a go-to in my meal rotation because it’s affordable, delicious, and practically effortless.

Why You'll Love This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Rice

Get ready to fall in love with this set-it-and-forget-it meal. Not only is this crockpot recipe incredibly easy, but it's also packed with flavor and requires minimal prep work.

First off, this recipe is incredibly convenient. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, dinner practically makes itself while you go about your day.

It's also budget-friendly. Using basic pantry staples and affordable ingredients, this meal stretches to feed the whole family without breaking the bank.

Plus, it’s a kid-approved meal. The creamy, cheesy rice and tender chicken make this dish a comforting classic that even the pickiest eaters will devour.

Best of all, this dish is versatile. You can swap out ingredients, add extra veggies, or even use a different protein to make it your own.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple ingredients, each bringing something special to the table.

Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. They stay juicy and tender as they slow-cook, absorbing all the delicious flavors.

Rice – Long-grain white rice is ideal because it cooks up fluffy and absorbs the flavors well. If using brown rice, note that it will require extra liquid and a longer cook time.

Chicken Broth – This adds depth to the dish while ensuring the rice cooks properly. Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness.

Cream of Chicken Soup – This gives the dish its creamy texture and rich taste. You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery if preferred.

Cheese – A generous helping of shredded cheddar cheese melts into the dish, adding a creamy, gooey finish. Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends!

How To Make This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Rice

Making this meal is as simple as layering the ingredients and letting your slow cooker do the work.

Start by lightly greasing the inside of your crockpot. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom, seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup, stirring slightly to combine. This creates a rich base that will keep everything moist and flavorful.

Add the rice, ensuring it is evenly distributed in the liquid. If adding vegetables like carrots or peas, mix them in at this stage.

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. If using brown rice, you may need closer to 6 hours.

Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir in the cheese until melted and combined.

Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness!

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This dish stores well and reheats beautifully.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to maintain the creamy texture.

For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is flexible, making it easy to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Swap the protein – Try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or substitute shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
Make it dairy-free – Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and substitute the cream soup with a homemade dairy-free version.
Add veggies – Stir in frozen peas, chopped spinach, or diced bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
Use different grains – Instead of white rice, try using quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

No matter how you customize it, this Easy Crockpot Chicken and Rice is sure to become a family favorite!