Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting and delicious dish that your entire family will love. The chicken becomes tender and juicy while the rice absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
This recipe has been a family favorite for years. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it's perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and rich flavor that comforts the soul
- One-pot meal for easy cleanup
- Perfectly seasoned chicken and rice cooked to perfection
A Comforting Family Favorite
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice creates a dish that warms the soul and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. It's a meal that brings families together around the dinner table, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it. Let the slow cooker work its magic while you focus on other tasks or simply relax after a long day.
Nutritious and Wholesome Ingredients
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in delivering rich flavors and nutritional benefits. The boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great source of protein and stay juicy throughout the cooking process. Meanwhile, the long-grain white rice serves as a hearty base, soaking up all the delicious flavors from the chicken and broth.
Adding frozen peas and carrots not only enhances the dish's color but also boosts its nutritional profile. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish a balanced meal option for your family.
Customizing Your Dish
One of the best features of this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize it to suit your family's tastes. You can easily substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or even try using turkey for a leaner option. Additionally, if you're looking to add more veggies, consider tossing in bell peppers, corn, or even spinach.
For a flavor twist, experiment with different spices. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a spicy kick, while fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish to a gourmet experience. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Mix all ingredients well for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Place them in the slow cooker.
Add Rice and Vegetables
Add the rice, chopped onion, garlic, and frozen peas and carrots to the slow cooker over the chicken.
Mix in Liquids
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious meal!
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is a breeze. Allow the Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or quick lunches during the week.
To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to retain the creamy consistency. This dish holds up wonderfully, ensuring that you can enjoy leftovers without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the richness of this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice, consider serving it with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the meal and add a refreshing crunch. You might also want to serve some crusty bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
For beverage pairings, a chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, can enhance the meal beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, consider serving sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing touch.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to include your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a comforting and delicious dish that your entire family will love. The chicken becomes tender and juicy while the rice absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
Created by: Eliza Thornton
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Place them in the slow cooker.
Add the rice, chopped onion, garlic, and frozen peas and carrots to the slow cooker over the chicken.
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g