Name: Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; ½ tsp black pepper; Salt to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; Optional: fresh parsley or lemon wedges for serving

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory seasonings for a comforting, one-pot meal. It’s an easy and hands-off dinner that’s packed with flavor and perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Your family will love this wholesome, hearty dish!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Avoid Mushy Rice: Use long-grain rice for the best texture, and avoid overcooking. Add it midway if needed.
Layering Matters: Place chicken at the bottom to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
Boost Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley before serving.
Use High-Quality Broth: The broth is key to flavoring the rice and chicken, so choose a flavorful one.
Prep Ahead: Dice vegetables and measure seasonings the night before to save time in the morning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s effortless yet packed with hearty flavors. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your meal cooks to perfection. It’s customizable, nutritious, and a guaranteed family favorite. Whether you’re craving comfort food or a fuss-free dinner, this dish delivers.

Yield: Serves 6

Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

A comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice dish perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
3 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
½ tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Optional: fresh parsley or lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Crockpot: Grease the slow cooker with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Layer the Ingredients: Place chicken at the bottom. Top with onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and seasonings.
Add Rice and Broth: Pour rice evenly, followed by chicken broth. Ensure the rice is submerged in liquid.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and rice is cooked.
Shred or Slice: Once done, shred the chicken with forks or slice it as desired.
Serve and Garnish: Stir everything well. Garnish with parsley or lemon wedges for freshness before serving.

Notes

Check rice doneness an hour before the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.
Use a programmable slow cooker for added convenience.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 281Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 98mgSodium 678mgCarbohydrates 17gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 33g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tenderness. Thighs tend to stay juicier.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best; brown rice can be used but will require more liquid and cook time.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onion add flavor and nutrition, but you can mix in peas or mushrooms too.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, thyme, and a bay leaf elevate the dish’s aroma and taste.
Broth: Chicken broth is ideal for depth, but vegetable broth works as a substitute.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Swap: Use turkey, pork chops, or even plant-based alternatives like tofu.
Grain Alternatives: Substitute rice with quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a different texture or lower carb option.
Vegetable Boost: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
Cheesy Finish: Stir in shredded cheese or top with Parmesan before serving.
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for heat.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of broth to prevent dryness.