When life gets busy, the last thing you want is to stand by the stove for hours. That’s why this Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe is about to become your weeknight lifesaver. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and cozy flavors in every bite, it’s one of those meals that practically cooks itself, while you take care of everything else.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
A Grandma-Approved Comfort Dish
Growing up, comfort food always meant something warm and hearty simmering slowly in the kitchen. My grandma used to call these kinds of meals “set it and forget it dinners.” She believed that good food doesn’t have to be complicated, just made with love, patience, and simple ingredients.
This slow cooker chicken and rice fits perfectly into that philosophy. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and packed with flavor, exactly what a busy family dinner should be.
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Hands-off cooking: Let your slow cooker do the work.
- Family-friendly: Mild, creamy flavors everyone loves.
- Balanced meal: Protein, grains, and veggies all in one pot.
- Perfect leftovers: Reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple pantry staples, no fancy ingredients, just real food.
- 1 ½ lbs (about 3 medium) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked, rinsed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, added for color and sweetness)
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (or evaporated milk for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the slow cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with a bit of olive oil or nonstick spray. This keeps the rice from sticking later.
Step 2 – Add everything in
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom. Sprinkle in the rinsed rice, onion, garlic, carrots, peas, and all seasonings.
Step 3 – Pour the liquids
Add the chicken broth and milk. Gently stir to combine the ingredients without disturbing the chicken too much.
Step 4 – Let it cook
Set your slow cooker on:
- LOW for 4–5 hours, or
- HIGH for 2–2.5 hours
Avoid opening the lid during cooking, it releases the heat and affects how evenly the rice cooks.
Step 5 – Shred and mix
Once done, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir gently to combine. If the rice seems thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it.
Step 6 – Finish with love
Stir in a tablespoon of butter right before serving. It adds richness and that “grandma’s kitchen” touch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this slow cooker chicken and rice with:
- A crisp green salad
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- A drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cheddar cheese for extra flavor
It’s also delicious on its own, cozy, creamy, and satisfying.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add creaminess: Mix in a can of cream of chicken soup before cooking.
- Make it veggie-loaded: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or corn.
- Use brown rice: Increase cooking time to 6 hours on LOW.
- Avoid mushy rice: Don’t overcook and avoid opening the lid too often.
- For extra flavor: Brown the chicken briefly before adding it to the slow cooker.
Equipment
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
Nutritional Information (per serving, 1/6 of recipe)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 34 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 540 mg |
Nutritional values are approximate. Always check labels and adjust based on your ingredients. For more details, visit FDA Nutrition Guidelines.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Just increase the liquid slightly (about ½ cup more broth) and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours.
Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for food safety and even cooking.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Don’t stir too often, and make sure to use long-grain white rice instead of instant rice.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely, replace the milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.
A Note from Sofia
As a busy mom of three, I know how precious time can be during the week. This Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe is one of my go-tos on days when I need something wholesome but effortless. It reminds me of the warm dishes my Italian-Moroccan grandma used to make, simple, hearty, and always made with love.
Give this one a try next time you want an easy dinner that tastes like it’s been cooking all day (because it has!).