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Easy Crockpot Chicken Rice

Category: Satisfying Main Dishes

This comforting dish brings tender chicken, brown rice, and bright green broccoli together in a slow cooker for easy, hands-off cooking. The creamy base combines broth, sour cream, and mild mustard, gently seasoning the entire dish as it simmers. Adding sharp cheddar cheese at the end creates luscious pockets of melted flavor that enrich every bite. Broccoli is placed on top in the final step to retain a fresh texture while cooking through with the steam. Perfect for busy evenings, this wholesome meal requires minimal prep and cleanup, serving family-friendly portions that reheat beautifully.

Using bone-free, skinless chicken ensures tender results, while rinsing the rice prevents unwanted stickiness. Dried thyme, garlic, and onion powders add layers of savory warmth without overpowering. Balanced salt levels harmonize with low sodium broth, making this naturally gluten free dish ideal for a wide range of taste preferences. Leftovers maintain their creamy texture when refrigerated or frozen for easy future meals, highlighting its convenience along with comfort.

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Updated on Fri, 05 Dec 2025 22:31:03 GMT
A bowl of rice and chicken with broccoli on top. Pin
A bowl of rice and chicken with broccoli on top. | easydiyrecipes.com

This easy crockpot chicken and rice recipe delivers creamy comfort with almost no effort. Tender chicken and broccoli nestle into seasoned rice, finished with a generous layer of melted sharp cheddar. It all cooks together in a slow cooker, making life simpler at dinnertime. Everyone in my house gathers around for this dish, especially when a cozy comforting meal is in order.

I first made this recipe on a chilly school night and my youngest called me a kitchen wizard after just one bite. It has since become our official Friday night dinner whenever anyone needs a pick me up.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts: provide juicy protein throughout the dish. Choose the freshest you can find for best texture and taste.
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt: gives the sauce tang and richness. Full fat versions work best for creaminess.
  • Cheddar cheese: brings that signature gooey bite. Sharp cheddar stands up to the slow cooker and brings bolder flavor.
  • Chicken broth: infuses moisture and rounds out the savory background. Choose low sodium and check the label for real chicken.
  • Dijon mustard: adds subtle depth and zing. It takes the sauce from plain to craveable.
  • Dried thyme: delivers a cozy herbal note. Use fresh thyme if available for more fragrance.
  • Garlic powder and onion powder: add all over savoriness.
  • Salt and pepper: balance everything. Adjust for taste especially if broth is salty.
  • Brown rice or risotto rice: holds up to long cooking and develops the best texture. Rinse before using so the casserole stays creamy not sticky.
  • Broccoli florets: give color and a fresh crunch. Look for bright green heads for the nicest presentation and taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
Cut the chicken breasts into even, bite sized pieces about one inch each so they stay juicy and cook at the same rate in the slow cooker
Mix the Sauce:
In the crockpot stir together chicken broth sour cream Dijon mustard dried thyme garlic powder onion powder and seasoning until combined. This mixture creates the creamy flavor base for every bite
Add Rice and Chicken:
Add thoroughly rinsed rice and the chicken pieces to the crockpot. Mix very well so every grain of rice is coated and the chicken stays separated for even cooking
Top with Broccoli:
Scatter the broccoli florets on top of the rice and chicken mixture but do not stir. The steam will gently cook the broccoli to just tender as the rest of the dish finishes
Slow Cook the Mixture:
Cover and cook on low for three to four hours or high for two to three hours. The dish is done when the chicken is cooked through the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed
Finish with Cheese:
Quickly stir in half the cheddar cheese so it melts fully into the hot rice mixture. Sprinkle the rest over the top cover again and let it sit about fifteen minutes so the cheese forms a melty golden blanket
Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle out generous portions directly from the crockpot while hot and extra cheesy. This is best served piping warm for the most indulgent result
A bowl of rice with broccoli and chicken. Pin
A bowl of rice with broccoli and chicken. | easydiyrecipes.com

Sharp cheddar is the heart of comfort in this casserole. It forms those pockets of melted cheese that everyone rushes to spoon out first in my house. I love when we all gather with big bowls on the couch and share this dish with plenty of laughs.

Storage Tips

Let the leftovers cool before storing them in airtight containers. Keep in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze in single serving portions so you can easily reheat just what you need. When reheating, splash in a bit of broth or water to restore the creaminess of the rice.

Ingredient Substitutions

Boneless chicken thighs give a richer flavor and extra moisture if you have them. For more vegetables, toss in diced carrots peas or baby spinach near the end of cooking. If sharp cheddar is not available, Monterey Jack or mozzarella will work though the flavor will be milder.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this meal with a crisp green salad dressed in a bright lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Warm bread or rolls are perfect for scooping up melty sauce. For crunch, serve with a tangy apple slaw alongside.

Cultural Context

This dish is inspired by classic American casseroles that became kitchen staples in the twentieth century. The slow cooker gives it a modern twist making it both nostalgic and incredibly easy for today’s busy routines. Sharing this meal always feels like an invitation for everyone to relax around the table together.

A bowl of rice and broccoli. Pin
A bowl of rice and broccoli. | easydiyrecipes.com

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Simply add it on top as instructed; there is no need to thaw before cooking, and it will steam perfectly.

→ Is brown rice or risotto rice better for this dish?

Both options work nicely. Brown rice delivers a nuttier, firmer texture, while risotto rice offers a creamier consistency. Choose based on your preferred mouthfeel.

→ How do I prevent dry chicken?

Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces and avoid overcooking by using the low heat setting. This keeps the meat tender and juicy throughout the slow cook.

→ Can this be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep ingredients in advance by assembling them in the slow cooker and refrigerating. Cook only when ready to ensure freshness and flavor.

→ What are good topping options?

Extra sharp cheddar, fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, or a dollop of Greek yogurt add great flavor and a creamy finish to the dish.

Easy Crockpot Chicken Rice

Tender chicken, brown rice, and broccoli cooked slow with sharp cheddar for creamy, comforting dinner.

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
180 min
Total Time
195 min
By: Evelyn

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings (six servings)

Dietary Preferences: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Protein

01 450 grams boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2.5 to 4 cm pieces

→ Dairy

02 120 grams full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt
03 170 grams sharp cheddar cheese, grated and divided

→ Liquids

04 480 milliliters low sodium chicken broth

→ Vegetables

05 300 grams broccoli florets, fresh or frozen

→ Grains

06 190 grams rinsed brown rice or risotto rice

→ Seasonings

07 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
08 1 teaspoon dried thyme
09 1 teaspoon garlic powder
10 1 teaspoon onion powder
11 Salt and black pepper to taste

Steps

Step 01

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks approximately 2.5 to 4 cm each to ensure even cooking and tenderness.

Step 02

In the crockpot, mix together chicken broth, sour cream or Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until a smooth creamy base forms.

Step 03

Pour the rinsed rice into the crockpot, then add the chicken pieces. Stir gently to evenly distribute all ingredients and prevent clumping.

Step 04

Layer the broccoli florets directly on top of the mixture without stirring, allowing steam to cook the broccoli during the simmering process.

Step 05

Cover and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours or on high heat for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is thoroughly cooked, the rice is tender, and liquid is absorbed. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy rice.

Step 06

Stir in half of the grated sharp cheddar cheese to melt evenly into the creamy mixture, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let sit for 15 minutes to enhance cheesiness.

Step 07

Scoop portions directly from the crockpot while the cheese is warm and gooey. Serve hot for optimal comfort and flavor.

Notes

  1. Rinse rice thoroughly until water runs clear to avoid sticky, gummy texture.
  2. Adding broccoli at the end preserves its vibrant color and crispness.
  3. Adjust salt at the end to compensate for broth sodium variations.

Tools Required

  • Slow cooker (crockpot)

Allergy Info

Double-check all ingredients to spot potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional if uncertain.
  • Contains dairy; suitable for gluten-free diets.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn’t replace professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 420
  • Fats: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Proteins: 32 g