Crock Pot Chicken and Rice is one of those comforting, no-fuss meals that come together with just a few simple ingredients. Tender chicken breasts, fluffy rice, and a sprinkle of herbs all cook slowly to create a warm, cozy dish. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something tasty waiting for you without a lot of effort.
I love using my slow cooker for this dish because it means I can set it up in the morning and come home to a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to eat. The chicken turns out juicy and full of flavor, while the rice soaks up all the good juices, making every bite satisfying. I often like to add a little bit of frozen veggies in the last hour to make it a one-pot meal that’s both easy and filling.
One of my favorite ways to serve Crock Pot Chicken and Rice is with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies on the side to keep things light and fresh. It’s a meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy evening, and kids and adults alike seem to really enjoy it. Whenever I make this, I always hear requests to have it again soon, which is the best kind of compliment in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep the dish lean and tender. You can swap for thighs if you prefer richer flavor—they stay juicy during slow cooking.
Rice: Long grain white rice works best here for its fluffy texture. Avoid brown rice in this recipe as it takes longer to cook and might turn too soft.
Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water boosts flavor. Low-sodium broth is a great choice so you can control the saltiness more easily.
Vegetables: Onion, bell pepper, and celery add lovely depth and freshness. You can try frozen mixed veggies in the last hour for convenience.
How Do You Get the Rice Perfectly Tender Without It Turning Mushy?
Slow cooker meals with rice can be tricky if the rice gets too soft or sticks to the bottom. Here’s how to make it just right:
- Use the right rice—long grain white rice is a good bet for firm yet tender results.
- Do not pre-cook the rice. It cooks perfectly in the broth during slow cooking.
- Keep an eye on liquid amounts. Too much broth makes rice mushy; too little leaves it dry.
- Avoid stirring during cooking. This helps avoid mushiness and uneven cooking.
- If your slow cooker heats unevenly, check doneness early to avoid overcooking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker (Crock Pot) – I rely on mine because it cooks everything evenly and frees up your stove space.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keeps your ingredients accurate for the best flavor.
- Large spoon or spatula – easy for mixing everything together before serving.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
- Optional: Tongs – helpful for shredding the cooked chicken easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, more flavorful outcome.
- Add a can of diced tomatoes or a splash of lemon juice for a fresh twist.
- Mix in frozen peas, carrots, or corn toward the end for extra color and nutrients.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese or chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving for extra flavor.
Crock Pot Chicken And Rice Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups long grain white rice, uncooked
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep. Then, let your crock pot do the work by cooking it on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. It’s an easy dish that fills your home with wonderful aromas as it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Crock Pot
Start by spraying the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray or lightly grease it with butter or oil. This helps prevent the rice from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Layer Your Ingredients
Pour the uncooked rice evenly into the bottom of the crock pot. Next, place the chicken breasts on top of the rice. Spread the chopped onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and celery over the chicken and rice.
3. Add Seasonings and Broth
Sprinkle salt, black pepper, dried thyme, basil, and paprika evenly over all the ingredients. Pour the chicken broth carefully over everything. Dot the olive oil or butter on top to add richness to the dish.
4. Cook to Perfection
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken will become tender, and the rice will soak up all the flavorful broth, becoming soft and delicious.
5. Finish and Serve
Before serving, shred the chicken breasts with two forks right in the crock pot, and gently mix everything together so the rice and chicken combine well. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, then serve hot.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts before adding them to the crock pot. Cooking frozen chicken in a slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking and food safety concerns.
Can I Substitute Brown Rice for White Rice?
You can, but brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. If using brown rice, increase the broth by about 1 cup and extend the cooking time by an hour or so, checking for tenderness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Frozen peas, carrots, or corn added during the last hour of cooking make great additions to boost flavor and nutrition without much extra effort.
