This yummy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice dish is a real crowd-pleaser! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with broccoli, making it the perfect comfort food meal.
I love how easy it is to just throw everything in the crockpot and let it simmer. It’s like cooking magic—set it and forget it while you relax! Plus, leftovers are fantastic! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best in this recipe for a fluffy texture. If you want to switch it up, try using brown rice, but note it will take longer to cook. Quinoa is also a great gluten-free substitute!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this dish since they are lean and cook well in the crockpot. You can use thighs for more flavor or even a rotisserie chicken for convenience—just add it in shredded at the end.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are ideal for color and texture, but if you use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture. You can also mix in other veggies, like bell peppers or peas, for variety!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives this dish a deliciously rich flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, try pepper jack for a kick, or use mozzarella for a milder option. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re dairy-free!
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Rice in a Crockpot?
Cooking rice in a crockpot can be tricky but simple once you get the hang of it! The key is to ensure the rice has enough liquid and time to absorb it properly.
- Add enough liquid—rice needs about 2 cups of liquid for every cup of rice.
- Keep the lid on during cooking to trap moisture, which helps cook the rice evenly.
- Timing is crucial! Don’t lift the lid often, as it releases steam. Follow the recommended cooking times for best results.
By following these tips, your rice will come out perfectly tender every time!
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional garnish: extra shredded cheddar cheese or chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prep and will need 4 to 5 hours on low or 2 to 2.5 hours on high in the crockpot. Perfect for a busy day where you can set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Crockpot:
First, spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to make sure nothing sticks and cleanup is easy!
2. Layer the Rice:
Spread the uncooked rice evenly at the bottom of the crockpot. No need to pre-cook the rice; it will cook beautifully in the sauce.
3. Add Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice. It’s okay if they overlap a little; they will all cook thoroughly!
4. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, and salt over the chicken. This will add a lovely flavor to your dish.
5. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps.
6. Pour Sauce Over Chicken:
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken and rice. This will give it all the creamy love it needs!
7. Cooking Time:
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 2.5 hours. The chicken should be cooked through, and the rice will be tender.
8. Shred the Chicken:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Shred or chop them into bite-sized pieces, then return them to the pot.
9. Add Broccoli and Cheese:
Add the broccoli florets and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese to the crockpot. Stir everything well to mix it all together!
10. Final Cooking:
Cover and cook for another 20-30 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste, and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. A little extra cheese never hurts either!
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm, garnished with extra shredded cheese or fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy chicken broccoli rice straight from the crockpot—simple and delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook. If using brown rice, cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for about 3 to 4 hours. Make sure to add a bit more liquid as well, about 2 to 2.5 cups of broth.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you prefer a healthier option or need a substitute, you can use homemade cream of chicken soup or swap it for a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. For a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based cream soup or a combination of pureed cauliflower and vegetable broth!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients and place them in the crockpot the night before, then store it in the fridge. Just take it out in the morning and start cooking it without needing to prep again!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of milk to loosen it up if it seems dry when reheating.
