Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Crockpot Chicken and Rice is the perfect weeknight dinner – hearty, flavorful, and simple to prepare. This all-in-one meal combines juicy chicken, tender rice, and savory vegetables, making cleanup a breeze.
With a few easy steps, this recipe takes minimal effort to achieve maximum flavor. The chicken is seared to add extra richness, while the rice absorbs all the delicious seasonings, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or a quiet evening at home, Crockpot Chicken and Rice delivers a wholesome, fuss-free meal that everyone will love.
Crockpot Chicken and Rice – Ingredients
The star of this dish, tender chicken breasts, bring protein-packed comfort and flavor. Sautéed vegetables like onions, celery, and mushrooms infuse the dish with earthy depth and balance.
Brown rice soaks up all the savory goodness, creating a creamy texture while maintaining a satisfying bite. Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the dish with a citrusy tang that cuts through the richness.
Italian seasoning ties everything together, adding a fragrant, herby layer of flavor, while peas offer a pop of color and sweetness. Finally, parmesan and butter enrich the dish, giving it a creamy finish that enhances each bite.
Crockpot Chicken and Rice: Recipe Tips
- Browning the Chicken
While optional, browning the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot can elevate the flavor and texture. Searing the chicken locks in juices and creates a rich, golden crust that enhances the overall dish. If you’re short on time, skip this step and add the seasoned chicken directly to the slow cooker. - Rice Cooking Tip
Be sure to use brown rice as called for in the recipe. It holds up better in the slow cooker and absorbs the broth beautifully, giving the dish its creamy consistency. If you decide to swap for white rice, note that it cooks faster, so you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio accordingly. - Lemon Brightness
The zest and juice of the lemon provide a fresh burst of flavor, balancing the richness of the chicken and rice. For an extra pop of citrus, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving or as a garnish. This adds a vibrant touch that will make the dish feel even more refreshing.
What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken and Rice
- Simple Green Salad
Pair your Crockpot Chicken and Rice with a fresh, crisp green salad. A mix of leafy greens, such as arugula or spinach, dressed with a light vinaigrette offers a contrast to the hearty main dish. The bright, tangy dressing will complement the lemony notes in the chicken and rice. - Garlic Bread
A side of garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser. The crispy, buttery bread works wonderfully to scoop up the flavorful rice and any leftover sauce from the slow cooker. It’s a comforting addition that adds texture and depth to the meal, making it even more satisfying. - Steamed Vegetables
For a nutritious side, serve steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. Their natural sweetness and crunch provide a nice contrast to the creamy rice, and they add a vibrant touch to your plate. Plus, they enhance the meal’s nutritional value, making it even more well-rounded.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken thighs will add more flavor and tenderness to the dish, especially when cooked in the slow cooker. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook. - Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
While brown rice is preferred for its texture and ability to absorb the broth, you can use white rice in a pinch. However, white rice cooks faster, so you may need to reduce the cooking time and adjust the amount of liquid to avoid overcooking. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, and add fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten it up. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. After it has cooled, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.
Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Crockpot Chicken and Rice is a simple yet nourishing dish that requires minimal preparation. This one-pot meal combines succulent chicken with tender rice, simmered together in a flavorful broth for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
- ½ medium yellow onion diced
- 1 rib celery diced
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 ¾ cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and sliced mushrooms. Cook for approximately 8 to 10 minutes until softened, allowing the mushrooms to release their moisture. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Once fragrant, transfer the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker insert.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and increase the heat to medium-high. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until browned. Once seared, turn off the heat and set the chicken aside.
- Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, followed by the rice, lemon zest, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and additional salt and pepper. Stir the mixture to combine evenly.
- Add the seared chicken breasts, along with any juices accumulated in the skillet, into the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure the chicken is evenly distributed.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours. Begin checking the chicken for doneness after 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the thickness of the chicken. If the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker, place it in a dish, and cover with foil to keep warm. Allow the rice to continue cooking until fully tender.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the lid of the slow cooker. Add the unsalted butter, frozen peas, and grated parmesan. Stir the mixture to incorporate the ingredients and heat the peas thoroughly.
- Slice or chop the chicken and return it to the slow cooker, mixing it into the rice. Alternatively, serve the chicken on top of the rice mixture when plating.
Notes
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.
