Crock Pot Chicken and Rice (+Video)

This creamy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with hearty rice, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for an easy weeknight supper, this recipe delivers delicious flavor with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy a rich, creamy dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply add ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work. No complicated steps needed!
• Flavorful Meal: The combination of chicken, rice, and creamy soups creates a savory blend that’s packed with taste.
• Versatile Dish: Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Make it your own!
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it great for lunch the next day or meal prep.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love this creamy comfort food, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious meal, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow Cooker
• Large Skillet
• Medium Bowl
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Cutting Board

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, resulting in tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice.
• Large Skillet: Ideal for browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Medium Bowl: Perfect for mixing ingredients seamlessly without making a mess.

Ingredients

This creamy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice is an easy, classic family favorite made with seasoned chicken, long grain rice, onions, garlic and broth.

Ingredients:
– 8 chicken tenderloins
– 1/2 Tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 sweet onion, finely diced
– 2 teaspoons minced garlic
– 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
– 10 ounce can cream of chicken soup
– 10 ounce can cheddar cheese soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (for topping, optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley (for topping, optional)

How to Make Crock Pot Chicken and Rice (+Video)

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat 8 chicken tenderloins dry with a paper towel.
2. Season the chicken with 1/2 Tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning on both sides according to your taste.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2–3 Tablespoons of olive or vegetable oil.
2. Once hot, brown both sides of the chicken tenders in batches. Aim for a nice golden color without cooking them through completely.
3. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper browning. Remove browned tenders from heat.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Place browned chicken in the bottom of a 5 or 6-quart oval slow cooker.
2. In a medium bowl, combine 3 cups chicken broth, finely diced sweet onion, minced garlic, and uncooked long grain rice; stir well.
3. Add cream of chicken soup and cheddar cheese soup to the mixture and mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Cook

1. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken tenders, ensuring that the rice is spread out evenly.
2. Cover and cook on low for about 3½ – 5 hours depending on your slow cooker model.
3. About halfway through cooking time, gently stir around the rice to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Check Doneness

1. If at any point the rice seems crunchy with little liquid left in the pot, add about 1/2 cup water and gently stir.
2. Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and that the rice is soft but not mushy.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. For extra cheesiness, consider adding shredded cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking; allow it to melt under cover.
2. Top with dried parsley if desired before serving alongside a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables.

Enjoy your homemade Crock Pot Chicken and Rice!

How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken and Rice (+Video)

Crock Pot Chicken and Rice is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or something light, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing adds a refreshing crunch.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan cheese and croutons pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken and rice.

Add Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli florets add color and nutrition to your plate.
• Green Beans: Tender green beans tossed in olive oil make for a simple yet delicious side.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the flavors of the dish and is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are great for scooping up the chicken and rice.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives provide an onion-like flavor that enhances the overall taste.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Rice (+Video)

To ensure your Crock Pot Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy with your seasonings. Enhancing the flavors will elevate the dish significantly.
• Bold browning: Take time to brown the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. This adds depth of flavor.
• Bold liquid measurements: Ensure you measure liquids accurately; too little may result in crunchy rice.
• Bold stirring halfway: Gently stir halfway through cooking to avoid uneven cooking of rice.
• Bold resting time: Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Chicken and Rice (+Video)

Adding side dishes can enhance your meal experience with Crock Pot Chicken and Rice. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair well with the chicken.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These offer a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft rice.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the main dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings additional nutrients and fiber to your plate.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a crowd-pleaser, adding sweetness to your meal.
6. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a sweet finish that cleanses the palate after a savory dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Chicken and Rice, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the chicken can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always take the time to sear the chicken tenderloins for better taste.
• Ignoring the Cooking Time: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin your meal. Keep an eye on cooking times and check your slow cooker settings.
• Not Stirring Midway: Failing to stir halfway through can result in uneven cooking. Make sure to gently mix the rice and liquid for even results.
• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding too much broth can make your dish soupy instead of creamy. Measure carefully to maintain the right consistency.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Every palate is different. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences, especially with lemon pepper.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Crock Pot Chicken and Rice (+Video)

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Crock Pot Chicken and Rice (+Video)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to season Crock Pot Chicken and Rice (+Video)?

Using lemon pepper seasoning adds great flavor, but feel free to experiment with garlic powder or Italian herbs for variety.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust cooking times and liquid amounts since brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.

How do I know when my chicken is cooked?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition or swap out chicken for turkey or lamb if desired.

How do I store leftovers properly?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage as mentioned earlier.

Conclusion

This creamy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is not only simple but also versatile enough to adapt according to your family’s tastes. With options for additional ingredients like vegetables or different seasonings, it’s sure to become a favorite meal at your table. Give it a try today!

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