This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice dish combines chicken, broccoli, and rice into a creamy and cheesy delight. It’s a one-pot meal that cooks while you go about your day!
Let’s be real, who doesn’t love a meal that practically makes itself? I love coming home to the warm smell of this cheesy goodness—it’s like a hug on a plate! 😋
It’s super simple: just toss everything in the crockpot, set it, and relax. Perfect for busy days when you need dinner sorted without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I recommend using long grain or jasmine rice for fluffy results. If you’re out of rice, you can swap it with quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish lean, but thighs work too if you prefer darker meat. They add extra flavor but may need a bit more cooking time.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli brings a nice crunch and color. If fresh isn’t available, frozen works just fine—just be sure to thaw it first!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. You can also experiment with Monterey Jack or mozzarella if you want a milder taste or gooier texture.
Cream of Chicken Soup: For a homemade version, mix equal parts chicken broth and milk with flour or cornstarch for thickening. Vegan cream soups or mushroom soup can also work for a different flavor!
How Do I Shred the Chicken Easily?
Shredding chicken is a simple step, but here’s how to do it quickly. Once the chicken is fully cooked, take two forks and pull the chicken apart gently, starting from the middle and working your way out. Shredding it directly in the crockpot saves on dishes and lets those flavors mix beautifully!
- Make sure the chicken is tender after the slow cook—this makes shredding easier.
- Use two forks; hold one fork steady and pull the meat apart with the other.
- Don’t worry about perfect shreds; rustic pieces add to the homey feel of the dish!
With these tips, you’ll whip up a comforting meal that everyone will love!
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup milk or cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 10-15 minutes for prep time and then about 4 to 6 hours of cooking time in the crockpot. The result is a delicious, hearty meal that you can come home to, all ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with a non-stick cooking spray. This helps to prevent anything from sticking and makes for easier cleanup!
2. Layer the Rice:
Next, pour the uncooked rice into the bottom of the crockpot. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks uniformly.
3. Add the Chicken:
Now, place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts right on top of the rice. They don’t need to be in any special order—just lay them down!
4. Mix in the Liquids:
Pour the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup evenly over the chicken and rice. This mixture will create a flavorful base for your dish.
5. Season It Up:
Add in the chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme (or your choice of Italian seasoning), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender!
7. Shred the Chicken:
About 30 minutes before serving, uncover the crockpot and shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks. This allows the chicken to soak up all the delicious flavors!
8. Add the Broccoli:
Stir in the broccoli florets, mixing them in with the chicken and rice. This will help them cook through while adding a fresh crunch!
9. Cheese It Up:
Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir gently to combine it a bit, then cover the crockpot again and let it cook for the remaining time until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melted.
10. Make It Creamy:
If you’d like a creamier dish, stir in the milk or cream and let it cook for a few more minutes. This step adds an extra touch of richness!
11. Final Adjustments:
Before serving, taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings with extra salt and pepper if needed. This is your creation—make it just how you like it!
Serve warm in bowls and enjoy this comforting, cheesy, and hearty meal with your family. Perfect for any day of the week! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to add an extra hour to the cooking time if using frozen chicken breasts. The slow cooking method ensures they’ll be cooked through by the time the dish is ready!
Can I Substitute the Rice with Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice?
Absolutely! For quinoa, reduce the chicken broth by 1 cup and cook for about 2 to 3 hours on low. If using cauliflower rice, add it in the last 15 minutes of cooking to prevent it from getting mushy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute the milk or cream with plant-based options like almond milk or coconut milk. Just ensure that the cream of chicken soup is also dairy-free!
