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Crockpot Chicken and Rice – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Name: Crockpot Chicken and Rice – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 14 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon finely minced garlic: This adds a lovely aroma and depth.; ½ medium onion, diced: Onions bring sweetness as they cook down.; 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for flavor enhancement.; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A sprinkling adds just the right amount of zing.; 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock: A flavorful base that hydrates the rice.; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes: The star of our dish.; 1½ cups uncooked brown rice: Nutty and wholesome.; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: For that ooey-gooey finish.; 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Provides an earthy aroma.

Willie Regan August 4, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 14 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving into the heart of our dish, let’s talk about what to serve alongside this comforting meal. A simple side salad can bring a fresh crunch to balance the creamy texture of the chicken and rice. Consider mixing leafy greens with a classic vinaigrette.

Another great option is roasted vegetables. Carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil and sprinkled with salt enhance the meal’s nutrition and flavor. For those craving something warm, homemade garlic bread could offer a delightful contrast.

Imagine coming home after a long day, and the comforting aroma of a hearty meal greets you at the door. That’s the magic of crockpot chicken and rice. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel wrapped in a fuzzy blanket.

Made with simple ingredients, this meal is as inviting as it is straightforward. I want to take you through my journey of discovering this recipe, diving into flavors, textures, and a few handy tips that will make this dish your go-to for busy evenings.

What is Crockpot Chicken and Rice?

At its core, crockpot chicken and rice is a one-pot meal. You’re looking at tender chicken pieces simmered with rice and a blend of savory ingredients. This dish cooks slowly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

As it stews, the chicken becomes juicy, and the rice absorbs rich, delectable broth. This isn’t just about cooking; it’s about creating a shared experience around the dinner table.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Crockpot Chicken and Rice?

You’ve probably seen many variations out there. What sets this recipe apart is the attention to texture and flavor balance. While many recipes use simply water or stock, this one incorporates cream of chicken soup. This step transforms a so-so meal into something creamy and satisfying. It adds a unique depth that you won’t find everywhere.

Additionally, this recipe uses brown rice. It not only adds nutrition but also provides a hearty bite that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken. You could say I’ve been on a quest to find that comforting yet nourishing balance, and I believe this dish nails it.

How Does It Taste Like?

The beauty of crockpot chicken and rice lies in its harmonious flavors. It has a savory profile that’s not overly aggressive, making it approachable for all palates. The chicken is tender, almost melting in your mouth, while the rice is pleasantly chewy.

The cream of chicken soup integrates everything, resulting in a rich sauce that envelops each grain of rice. The sharpness of cheddar cheese adds a delicious punch. Together, these elements create a meal that’s warm, comforting, and quite addictive.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish:

Let’s gather the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need for a hearty serving of crockpot chicken and rice:

1 teaspoon finely minced garlic: This adds a lovely aroma and depth.
½ medium onion, diced: Onions bring sweetness as they cook down.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for flavor enhancement.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A sprinkling adds just the right amount of zing.
3 cups low-sodium chicken stock: A flavorful base that hydrates the rice.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: This creaminess is key!
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes: The star of our dish.
1 ½ cups uncooked brown rice: Nutty and wholesome.
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: For that ooey-gooey finish.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Provides an earthy aroma.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start off by dicing the chicken breasts into one-inch cubes. This size ensures even cooking and tenderness. Don’t rush. Each cube should be uniform to ensure consistent cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a pan, heat a touch of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion. Stir occasionally until they turn soft and aromatic, about three to four minutes. This step builds a flavor foundation.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, combine the sautéed garlic and onions, chicken stock, cream of chicken soup, brown rice, and thyme. It’s time to get your hands dirty, mixing everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Now, gently fold in the cubed chicken. Ensure all pieces are submerged in the liquid and rice mixture. This step ensures the chicken becomes juicy as it cooks.

Step 5: Season

Sprinkle in the kosher salt and ground black pepper. Stir everything again to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated with seasoning.

Step 6: Set the Crockpot

Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. Depending on your device, cook on low for about 6 to 7 hours or on high for about 3 to 4 hours. The longer cooking time on low adds depth to the flavors, but both methods will yield delicious results.

Step 7: Add Cheddar Cheese

Around 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the lid again. This allows the cheese to melt into the dish, adding richness.

Tips & Tricks for Making Crockpot Chicken and Rice

Making this dish easier and more satisfying is all about the little things! Here are five tips you should consider:

Use Low-Sodium Stock: This is crucial. It allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Taking the time to sauté garlic and onions enhances the dish’s flavor.
Rice Type Matters: Brown rice is hearty. If you prefer white rice, adjust the cooking time since it cooks faster.
Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
Add Veggies: Consider adding frozen peas or carrots into the mix an hour before it’s ready. It’s a simple way to sneak in extra nutrients.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutrition you can expect from one hearty serving of crockpot chicken and rice:

Calories: Approximately 350
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 600mg (depending on the stock used)

These figures can vary based on ingredient choices.

How Do I Store This Dish?

Leftovers are a dream come true. Store any uneaten crockpot chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll last up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags.

Make sure you label them with the date before tossing them in the freezer. They can last up to three months in there. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Crockpot Chicken and Rice?

Life’s too short not to experiment, right? Here are five great substitutes to consider:

Rotisserie Chicken: Instead of raw chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken can save time. Just add it toward the end of cooking to heat through.
Quinoa: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, quinoa works well. Remember to adjust the liquid amount since it’s more water-efficient.
Vegetable Stock: For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable stock and replace chicken with chickpeas for protein.
Cream Soups: Instead of cream of chicken, try cream of mushroom or even a dairy-free version to suit dietary needs.
Herbs and Spices: Play around with herbs like rosemary or spices like paprika to put your stamp on the dish.

Conclusion

Crockpot chicken and rice is a delightful dish bursting with warmth and flavor. It reflects the essence of home-cooked meals that bring families together. With easy preparation, ample opportunities for swapping ingredients, and the ability to customize, it’s a versatile staple. So fire up your crockpot, and let it work its magic. You’ll want to savor every comforting bite. Enjoy the journey from prep to plate, and most importantly, the time shared with loved ones around the table!

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Print Recipe

Crockpot Chicken and Rice – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Author: Willie Regan Cuisine: American Courses: Main Course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 4 mins Total Time 14 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 350

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

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