Creamy Chicken and Rice Crock Pot Recipe

Ingredients and preparation

To make this creamy chicken and rice crock pot recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a comforting, flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
• 1 cup of uncooked long-grain white rice – Avoid instant rice, as it can become mushy during the slow cooking process.
• 2 cups of chicken broth – This adds depth to the dish and keeps the rice moist.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup – This is the base for the creamy texture. You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery if desired.
• 1 cup of milk – Helps to thin out the soup and adds creaminess.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced – For a hint of aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme – This herb pairs beautifully with chicken and adds a fragrant note.
• 1 teaspoon of paprika – Adds a mild warmth and color to the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Season according to your preference.
• 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots – These add color and a bit of sweetness to the dish. You can also use fresh vegetables if you prefer.
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese – Optional, but it adds a nice savory finish to the dish.

Before you begin cooking, make sure to prepare your ingredients. Start by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, which will help prevent it from becoming too sticky. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. If you’re using fresh vegetables instead of frozen, cut them into bite-sized pieces. Once everything is prepped, you’re ready to move on to the cooking process.

Step-by-step cooking instructions

Now that your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to start cooking. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious, creamy chicken and rice dish in your crock pot:

• Step 1: Layer the ingredients – Begin by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. This will ensure the chicken absorbs plenty of flavor as it cooks. Next, sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped onion over the chicken.
• Step 2: Add the rice and liquids – Pour the rinsed rice evenly over the chicken and onions. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and milk until smooth. This mixture will create the creamy base for the dish. Pour the liquid mixture over the rice and chicken, making sure everything is well-covered. The liquid should be enough to cook the rice and keep the chicken moist, but not too much that it becomes soupy.
• Step 3: Add the herbs and seasoning – Sprinkle the dried thyme over the top, and give everything a gentle stir to distribute the flavors. Be careful not to disturb the chicken too much, as you want it to remain at the bottom of the crock pot for even cooking.
• Step 4: Cook on low – Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Cooking on low allows the chicken to become tender and juicy, while the rice absorbs all the flavors. Avoid opening the lid during cooking, as this can release heat and extend the cooking time.
• Step 5: Add the vegetables – About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, add the frozen peas and carrots to the crock pot. Stir them gently into the rice mixture, making sure they are evenly distributed. If you’re using fresh vegetables, you can add them at this point as well. Continue cooking for the remaining 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
• Step 6: Check for doneness – After 4 to 5 hours, check the chicken and rice for doneness. The chicken should be fully cooked and easy to shred with a fork, and the rice should be tender but not mushy. If the rice is still a bit firm, you can cook for an additional 15 to 30 minutes.
• Step 7: Shred the chicken – Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the breasts from the crock pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir it into the rice mixture. This will help distribute the chicken evenly throughout the dish.
• Step 8: Add the finishing touches – If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the dish and stir it in until melted and well-combined. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Tips for serving and storage

Once your creamy chicken and rice dish is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve and store it for maximum enjoyment. Here are some tips to help you make the most of this comforting meal:

• Serving suggestions: This dish is hearty and filling on its own, but you can elevate it with a few simple sides. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken and rice. You could also serve it with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any extra creamy sauce. For a bit of brightness, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of chopped parsley just before serving.
• Portioning: This recipe makes about 4 to 6 servings, depending on portion size. If you’re serving a larger crowd, you can easily double the recipe, but make sure your crock pot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients. If you’re cooking for fewer people, the leftovers store well and can be enjoyed later.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore the creamy texture, as the rice can absorb more liquid as it sits.
• Freezing: This dish also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. To freeze, portion the cooled chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label and date the containers, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of liquid if necessary to maintain the creamy consistency.
• Reheating tips: When reheating in the microwave, cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to prevent it from drying out. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. If reheating on the stovetop, place the chicken and rice in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.