🍚 Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Rice – A Heavenly One-Pot Comfort Meal
Imagine coming home after a long day to a warm, creamy bowl of chicken and rice that melts in your mouth with every bite. The best part? You barely lifted a finger to make it. That’s the magic of this 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe. With just uncooked rice and four simple ingredients, this dish transforms into a rich, satisfying, and heavenly meal that tastes like something grandma simmered on the stove all day.
Whether you’re feeding a busy family, meal-prepping for the week, or just need something foolproof and cozy, this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Rice will hit the spot every single time.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
✅ Set it and forget it – No stirring, flipping, or checking.
-
✅ Only 5 ingredients – All pantry staples or easy to grab.
-
✅ One-pot meal – Protein, carbs, and flavor all in one bowl.
-
✅ Ultra comforting – Creamy, cheesy, savory deliciousness.
-
✅ Customizable – Add veggies, swap proteins, or adjust seasoning.
📝 Ingredient List – Just 5 Things
This recipe is based around just five key ingredients. You can expand and modify it later, but these are all you truly need for the basic version:
1. Uncooked White Rice – 1 ½ cups
This forms the heart of the dish. Use long-grain white rice (like jasmine or basmati). Avoid minute/quick rice, as it will turn to mush.
2. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – 1.5 to 2 pounds
Chicken gives the dish its hearty, savory bite. Breasts stay lean, while thighs give a richer flavor. Either work!
3. Chicken Broth – 4 cups
This adds both moisture and depth. Broth infuses the rice and chicken with savory flavor as it all cooks together.
4. Cream of Chicken Soup – 2 cans (10.5 oz each)
This creates the creamy, velvety texture. It thickens the broth and blends with the rice for the ultimate comfort base.
5. Cheddar Cheese – 1 ½ cups shredded (optional but recommended)
Stirred in at the end, the cheese adds gooey richness and a flavor boost. Feel free to use mild, sharp, or even a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.
🍽️ Optional Add-Ons for Extra Flavor
If you want to make it more than just basic, consider adding these optional ingredients:
-
1 tsp garlic powder or 2 cloves minced garlic
-
1 tsp onion powder or ½ diced onion
-
½ tsp paprika
-
1 cup frozen peas, corn, or mixed veggies
-
1 tbsp parsley or thyme
-
A dash of hot sauce for kick
These aren’t required but will elevate the final dish even more.
🧑🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s break down the entire slow cooker process from start to finish:
🔹 Step 1: Prep the Chicken
-
Rinse and pat dry your chicken breasts or thighs.
-
You can leave them whole to shred later, or cut them into chunks now if you prefer bite-sized pieces.
-
Season lightly with salt, pepper, and optional garlic/onion powder if desired.
🔹 Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
-
Lightly grease your slow cooker with nonstick spray or a little oil.
-
Add the uncooked rice to the bottom.
-
Place chicken on top of rice.
-
Pour in chicken broth to cover everything.
-
Spoon in both cans of cream of chicken soup and spread gently over the top (do not mix yet).
-
Optional: sprinkle in any spices or veggies you're using.
💡 Tip: Keep rice at the bottom for even cooking and creamy consistency.
🔹 Step 3: Cook Low & Slow
-
Cover with lid and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
-
About halfway through, give the rice a gentle stir (optional but helps even texture).
-
The dish is done when the rice is tender, chicken is fully cooked (165°F), and most of the liquid is absorbed.
🔹 Step 4: Shred or Stir
-
If you left the chicken whole, remove it, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
-
Stir everything gently to blend the rice and chicken together.
-
The consistency should be thick, creamy, and rich.
🔹 Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional but Delicious)
-
Turn off heat.
-
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey.
-
Let sit for 5–10 minutes to thicken and settle.
🔹 Step 6: Serve
-
Scoop into bowls.
-
Garnish with parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of extra cheese.
-
Serve with crusty bread, a salad, or enjoy as a standalone bowl of cozy heaven.
🥄 Serving Suggestions
Pair your creamy chicken and rice with:
-
Steamed broccoli or green beans
-
A light garden salad with vinaigrette
-
Dinner rolls or biscuits
-
Pickles or tangy relish for contrast
This dish is hearty enough to be a full meal but plays nicely with lighter, crisp sides to balance the richness.
🔁 Variations & Custom Twists
🥕 Add Vegetables:
-
Frozen peas, carrots, corn, or spinach stirred in during the last 30 minutes.
-
Sautéed mushrooms for a deeper umami flavor.
🌶️ Spice It Up:
-
Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
-
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
🍗 Switch the Protein:
-
Use turkey or leftover rotisserie chicken.
-
Try cooked sausage or even canned tuna for a new spin.
🍛 Make It International:
-
Add curry powder and coconut milk for a Thai-style twist.
-
Use Mexican spices (cumin, chili powder) and top with cilantro and lime.
🧊 Storage & Reheating Instructions
🧊 To Store:
-
Let cool completely.
-
Transfer to airtight containers.
-
Store in fridge up to 4 days.
❄️ To Freeze:
-
Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
-
Freeze up to 3 months.
-
Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.
🔥 To Reheat:
-
Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
-
Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or milk.
🔄 Note: The rice may thicken more upon sitting. Add a bit of liquid when reheating to loosen it.
📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 790mg |
This is an estimate. Actual values depend on ingredients used and portion size.
👩🍳 Pro Tips for Success
-
Don’t overcook – Overcooked rice can get mushy. Check around the 4-hour mark if on LOW.
-
Grease the pot – Prevents rice from sticking to the bottom.
-
Shred chicken at the end – Keeps it juicy and prevents it from breaking down too early.
-
Use fresh cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
-
Let it sit – A 5-minute rest after cooking helps flavors meld and thickens the final dish.
💬 What Others Are Saying
“This was a hit with my picky kids!”
— Madison R.
“I had everything on hand. Tossed it in before work and came home to dinner DONE.”
— Jacob T.
“I added peas and a dash of cayenne. So creamy and filling. My new favorite!”
— Teresa L.
🏁 Final Thoughts
With just five ingredients, a slow cooker, and zero stress, this Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe is truly heaven in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal that brings people to the table—hearty, nostalgic, rich in flavor, and deeply comforting. Plus, it’s versatile, budget-friendly, and ideal for families or meal preppers.
So the next time you're tempted to reach for takeout or don't know what to make, remember this recipe. All you need to do is put uncooked rice in a slow cooker with these four ingredients, and let it work its magic. When you lift that lid, you’ll be greeted by a warm, creamy, cheesy hug in a bowl—pure comfort, every time.
🍚 Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Rice – A Heavenly One-Pot Comfort Meal
Imagine coming home after a long day to a warm, creamy bowl of chicken and rice that melts in your mouth with every bite. The best part? You barely lifted a finger to make it. That’s the magic of this 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe. With just uncooked rice and four simple ingredients, this dish transforms into a rich, satisfying, and heavenly meal that tastes like something grandma simmered on the stove all day.
Whether you’re feeding a busy family, meal-prepping for the week, or just need something foolproof and cozy, this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Rice will hit the spot every single time.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
✅ Set it and forget it – No stirring, flipping, or checking.
-
✅ Only 5 ingredients – All pantry staples or easy to grab.
-
✅ One-pot meal – Protein, carbs, and flavor all in one bowl.
-
✅ Ultra comforting – Creamy, cheesy, savory deliciousness.
-
✅ Customizable – Add veggies, swap proteins, or adjust seasoning.
📝 Ingredient List – Just 5 Things
This recipe is based around just five key ingredients. You can expand and modify it later, but these are all you truly need for the basic version:
1. Uncooked White Rice – 1 ½ cups
This forms the heart of the dish. Use long-grain white rice (like jasmine or basmati). Avoid minute/quick rice, as it will turn to mush.
2. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – 1.5 to 2 pounds
Chicken gives the dish its hearty, savory bite. Breasts stay lean, while thighs give a richer flavor. Either work!
3. Chicken Broth – 4 cups
This adds both moisture and depth. Broth infuses the rice and chicken with savory flavor as it all cooks together.
4. Cream of Chicken Soup – 2 cans (10.5 oz each)
This creates the creamy, velvety texture. It thickens the broth and blends with the rice for the ultimate comfort base.
5. Cheddar Cheese – 1 ½ cups shredded (optional but recommended)
Stirred in at the end, the cheese adds gooey richness and a flavor boost. Feel free to use mild, sharp, or even a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.
🍽️ Optional Add-Ons for Extra Flavor
If you want to make it more than just basic, consider adding these optional ingredients:
-
1 tsp garlic powder or 2 cloves minced garlic
-
1 tsp onion powder or ½ diced onion
-
½ tsp paprika
-
1 cup frozen peas, corn, or mixed veggies
-
1 tbsp parsley or thyme
-
A dash of hot sauce for kick
These aren’t required but will elevate the final dish even more.
🧑🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s break down the entire slow cooker process from start to finish:
🔹 Step 1: Prep the Chicken
-
Rinse and pat dry your chicken breasts or thighs.
-
You can leave them whole to shred later, or cut them into chunks now if you prefer bite-sized pieces.
-
Season lightly with salt, pepper, and optional garlic/onion powder if desired.
🔹 Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
-
Lightly grease your slow cooker with nonstick spray or a little oil.
-
Add the uncooked rice to the bottom.
-
Place chicken on top of rice.
-
Pour in chicken broth to cover everything.
-
Spoon in both cans of cream of chicken soup and spread gently over the top (do not mix yet).
-
Optional: sprinkle in any spices or veggies you're using.
💡 Tip: Keep rice at the bottom for even cooking and creamy consistency.
🔹 Step 3: Cook Low & Slow
-
Cover with lid and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
-
About halfway through, give the rice a gentle stir (optional but helps even texture).
-
The dish is done when the rice is tender, chicken is fully cooked (165°F), and most of the liquid is absorbed.
🔹 Step 4: Shred or Stir
-
If you left the chicken whole, remove it, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
-
Stir everything gently to blend the rice and chicken together.
-
The consistency should be thick, creamy, and rich.
🔹 Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional but Delicious)
-
Turn off heat.
-
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey.
-
Let sit for 5–10 minutes to thicken and settle.
🔹 Step 6: Serve
-
Scoop into bowls.
-
Garnish with parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of extra cheese.
-
Serve with crusty bread, a salad, or enjoy as a standalone bowl of cozy heaven.
🥄 Serving Suggestions
Pair your creamy chicken and rice with:
-
Steamed broccoli or green beans
-
A light garden salad with vinaigrette
-
Dinner rolls or biscuits
-
Pickles or tangy relish for contrast
This dish is hearty enough to be a full meal but plays nicely with lighter, crisp sides to balance the richness.
🔁 Variations & Custom Twists
🥕 Add Vegetables:
-
Frozen peas, carrots, corn, or spinach stirred in during the last 30 minutes.
-
Sautéed mushrooms for a deeper umami flavor.
🌶️ Spice It Up:
-
Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
-
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
🍗 Switch the Protein:
-
Use turkey or leftover rotisserie chicken.
-
Try cooked sausage or even canned tuna for a new spin.
🍛 Make It International:
-
Add curry powder and coconut milk for a Thai-style twist.
-
Use Mexican spices (cumin, chili powder) and top with cilantro and lime.
🧊 Storage & Reheating Instructions
🧊 To Store:
-
Let cool completely.
-
Transfer to airtight containers.
-
Store in fridge up to 4 days.
❄️ To Freeze:
-
Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
-
Freeze up to 3 months.
-
Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.
🔥 To Reheat:
-
Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
-
Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or milk.
🔄 Note: The rice may thicken more upon sitting. Add a bit of liquid when reheating to loosen it.
📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 790mg |
This is an estimate. Actual values depend on ingredients used and portion size.
👩🍳 Pro Tips for Success
-
Don’t overcook – Overcooked rice can get mushy. Check around the 4-hour mark if on LOW.
-
Grease the pot – Prevents rice from sticking to the bottom.
-
Shred chicken at the end – Keeps it juicy and prevents it from breaking down too early.
-
Use fresh cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
-
Let it sit – A 5-minute rest after cooking helps flavors meld and thickens the final dish.
💬 What Others Are Saying
“This was a hit with my picky kids!”
— Madison R.
“I had everything on hand. Tossed it in before work and came home to dinner DONE.”
— Jacob T.
“I added peas and a dash of cayenne. So creamy and filling. My new favorite!”
— Teresa L.
🏁 Final Thoughts
With just five ingredients, a slow cooker, and zero stress, this Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe is truly heaven in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal that brings people to the table—hearty, nostalgic, rich in flavor, and deeply comforting. Plus, it’s versatile, budget-friendly, and ideal for families or meal preppers.
So the next time you're tempted to reach for takeout or don't know what to make, remember this recipe. All you need to do is put uncooked rice in a slow cooker with these four ingredients, and let it work its magic. When you lift that lid, you’ll be greeted by a warm, creamy, cheesy hug in a bowl—pure comfort, every time.
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