This Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a cozy meal that cooks itself! Just toss in chicken, rice, and your favorite veggies, and let the slow cooker do the magic.
It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I love coming home to the smell of dinner ready and waiting. Plus, it’s super simple—no fuss and no hassle. Who doesn’t appreciate that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they stay moist. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you could use chicken thighs instead, which are also very flavorful.
Rice: Long grain white rice is perfect, but you can use jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist. If you want a whole grain, brown rice can work, but adjust the cooking time as it takes longer to cook.
Chicken Broth: For a richer flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth. Vegetable broth is a good alternative if you want a vegetarian meal. Just ensure it’s low-sodium to control the saltiness.
Vegetables: Onions and garlic add a nice base flavor, but feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or green beans based on your personal preferences or what’s in your fridge!
Spices: While thyme and parsley are excellent choices, you could also experiment with Italian seasoning or even a pinch of paprika for some added warmth.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken in a crock pot makes it tender and juicy, but there are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Always layer the rice and vegetables at the bottom, then place the chicken on top. This helps the chicken steam effectively.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken. It needs to reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
- Don’t lift the lid too often during cooking, as this can let heat escape and increase cooking time.
Letting the chicken rest covered for a few minutes after cooking will also help keep it juicy! Enjoy your cozy meal!
Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, then you just set the crock pot and let it do the work! Cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for about 3 hours. You’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy by dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crock Pot:
First things first, spray the inside of your crock pot lightly with cooking spray or rub a bit of oil. This helps prevent everything from sticking later.
2. Layer the Rice:
Now, grab your uncooked rice and spread it evenly across the bottom of the crock pot. This will be the base for your tasty dish.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, chop up your onion, mince the garlic, and dice the carrots. Add these right on top of the rice, spreading them out for even cooking.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Gently pour the chicken broth over the rice and veggies. This is where all the flavors start to come together!
5. Place the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them on top of the mixture. Make sure they’re nestled in nicely.
6. Season It Up:
Sprinkle the thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
7. Start Cooking:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for about 5 to 6 hours, or on high for 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and the rice is nice and tender.
8. Add the Peas:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, toss in the frozen peas. This will give them just enough time to heat up.
9. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, give everything a quick taste. If needed, adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and pepper.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
When it’s all cooked and ready, serve it warm. Spoon out the rice and vegetables alongside the chicken. Enjoy the heartwarming flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, but if you choose brown rice, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time since it takes longer to cook. Typically, brown rice needs about 6 to 7 hours on low or 4 hours on high in the crock pot. Make sure to increase the liquid by about half a cup to ensure it cooks properly!
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas or tofu, but be cautious with the cooking time as it will only require about 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You can also add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry upon reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, green beans, or zucchini. Add heartier veggies at the beginning of cooking and delicate ones, like spinach or peas, about 30 minutes before serving to prevent them from getting too soggy.
