Cheesy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a total winner because it’s incredibly simple to make and offers rich, cheesy, and comforting flavors. The slow cooker does all the work, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal waiting for you after a long day. The combination of chicken, creamy soups, mushrooms, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s savory, satisfying, and full of texture. Plus, it’s versatile – you can easily adjust it to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 5 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 2-1/2 cups white rice, cooked
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
• 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
• 8-ounce container sliced mushrooms
• 2 cups cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes (or use shredded cheese)
• Parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with garlic salt, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika.
2. In the base of your slow cooker, place the seasoned chicken breasts, chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms. Stir to mix everything together.
3. Add the cooked rice, chicken stock, cream of mushroom soup, and cream of chicken soup. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the cubed or shredded cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the dish.
6. Once done, garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
7. Serve the cheesy chicken and rice warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Total Time: 4-6 hours (slow cook on low) or 2-3 hours (slow cook on high)

Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: Add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli to enhance the dish and add more nutrients.
• Cheese Variety: Use a mix of different cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist.
• Low-Carb Version: Swap out the rice for cauliflower rice to create a low-carb version of this dish.
• Dairy-Free Option: To make it dairy-free, you can use dairy-free cheese and substitute the cream soups with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream of mushroom alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating on the stovetop, add a little extra chicken stock to loosen the rice and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure that they are fully cooked before serving. You may need to add a little more cooking time if using frozen chicken.

Can I make this recipe without mushrooms?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can omit them. The dish will still be creamy and delicious without them.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Brown rice generally takes longer to cook, so you may need to cook it for an additional hour and add extra chicken stock.

Can I use cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use cooked chicken in this recipe. Add it at the end of the cooking time, just enough to heat through, and stir in the cheese until melted.

Can I use another type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses works great in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep everything ahead of time, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the slow cooker and let it cook as directed.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a dash of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or some chopped jalapeños to spice up the flavor of this dish.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

Can I use a different kind of rice?

Yes, you can substitute the white rice with other rice varieties like jasmine, basmati, or even wild rice, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.

How do I know when this dish is done?

The chicken should be fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F), and the cheese should be melted and incorporated into the dish. The rice should also be tender and absorb the creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Cheesy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice is a quick and easy dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. With minimal prep and a little patience, you’ll have a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding the family. Whether served on its own or with a side salad, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Print