Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice
Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a comforting and delicious meal that captures the essence of homemade cooking with minimal effort. This one-pot dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and wholesome rice, making it a family favorite for busy weeknights.
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This recipe is simple to prepare and requires just a few ingredients. The crockpot does most of the work for you, allowing you to focus on other tasks or spend quality time with family. The blend of flavors creates a delightful harmony that every member of the family will enjoy. Plus, it is a complete meal in a pot, so you don’t have to worry about side dishes.
How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice
Here’s how to prepare this delicious dish in a few easy steps.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of uncooked rice
- 1 pound of chicken breasts
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In the crockpot, combine the uncooked rice, chicken breasts, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion, peas and carrots, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix.
- Place the chicken on top of the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Before serving, shred the chicken and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice
Serve this dish hot, right out of the crockpot. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For an added crunch, top it off with some green onions or crumbled crackers. This versatile meal can easily stand alone as a hearty entrée or be accompanied by your favorite sides.
How to Store Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice
Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the meal in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess and prevent the rice from drying out.
Tips to Make Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice Perfect
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality cheese make a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key to elevating the dish, so adjust according to your taste.
- Check Consistency: If the dish appears too thick when cooking, add a bit more chicken broth during the last hour of cooking.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding different vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli. For added zest, toss in some garlic or spices like paprika or cumin. You can also switch up the cheese; mozzarella or pepper jack can create a different flavor profile.
Pro Tips for Success
- If you prefer shredded chicken, place the chicken breasts in frozen. They will cook thoroughly as the dish simmers.
- For a richer flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in a pan before adding them to the crockpot.
- To speed up prep time, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. Just add it during the last hour of cooking to heat it through.
FAQs About Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice
1. Can I use brown rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires longer cooking time, about 6-8 hours on low. Make sure to add more chicken broth as needed.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, just add everything to the crockpot and set it up before heading out for the day.
3. What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can make a quick substitute using a roux. Combine equal parts butter and flour, then whisk in chicken broth until smooth and thick. You may also use cream of mushroom or vegetable soup as an alternative.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy gathering of flavors that brings families together. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that pleases the crowd at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to win hearts. Try it out and enjoy the delightful taste of this hearty dish!
Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Method
- In the crockpot, combine the uncooked rice, chicken breasts, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion, peas and carrots, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix.
- Place the chicken on top of the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Before serving, shred the chicken and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve warm and enjoy! Pair with a side salad or crusty bread.