Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice

Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice is a creamy, one-pot crockpot dinner made with tender protein, soft rice, and savory seasoning that slowly develops rich flavor as it cooks.

Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice

This Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice recipe is built for busy weeknights, affordable meal prep, and comforting family dinners that require almost no supervision. With the right liquid ratio and slow cooking method, you get fluffy rice, juicy protein, and a balanced texture every time.

If you enjoy slow-cooked comfort meals, pair this with Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup for a full cozy dinner spread. For precise rice-to-liquid ratios and slow cooker temperature control, follow these expert slow cooker guidelines from BBC Good Food to guarantee perfect texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice is creamy, filling, and requires minimal prep while delivering deep, savory flavor. Everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup and consistent texture throughout. It’s flexible, budget-friendly, and easy to convert to vegetarian or fully vegan without sacrificing richness.

Ingredients

Regular (full list):
  • 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1 pound chicken breast, cubed evenly
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional garnish: chopped green onions
Vegetarian (swap only):
  • Replace chicken with pressed extra-firm tofu or chickpeas.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Use cream of mushroom soup.
Vegan (swap only):
  • Replace chicken with pressed extra-firm tofu or rehydrated soy curls.
  • Use vegan cream-style soup.
  • Use vegetable broth.

Directions

Regular (full steps):
  1. Lightly grease the crockpot insert to prevent sticking.
  2. Spread uncooked rice evenly across the bottom.
  3. Layer cubed chicken evenly over the rice without mixing.
  4. In a bowl, whisk cream of chicken soup, broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley.
  5. Pour the mixture evenly over the rice and chicken.
  6. Add frozen vegetables on top without stirring.
  7. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until rice is tender and chicken reaches safe internal temperature.
  8. Stir gently at the end and adjust seasoning if needed.
  9. Let rest 5 minutes before serving to allow rice to absorb remaining moisture.
Vegetarian (swap only):
  • No time adjustments needed.
Vegan (swap only):
  • Stir gently at the end to prevent breaking tofu.
Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice

Prep Time And Nutrition Facts

Prep time is 10 minutes. Cook time ranges from 3–7 hours depending on temperature setting. Serves 4. Each serving averages 360–400 calories with balanced carbohydrates, moderate fat, and strong protein content in plant-based versions.

How To Serve Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice

  • Top with chopped green onions or fresh parsley.
  • Serve with steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables.
  • Add cracked black pepper before serving.
  • Pair with Potato and Corn Chowder for a comforting dinner combo.
  • Use leftovers in meal prep containers for lunches.
  • Serve alongside a crisp green salad.

How To Store Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice

  • Store in airtight container in refrigerator up to 4 days.
  • Freeze portions up to 2 months.
  • Reheat with 1–2 tablespoons broth to maintain creaminess.
  • Stir halfway through reheating for even warmth.

Tips To Make Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice

  • Rinse rice to remove excess starch for fluffier texture.
  • Use long-grain rice to prevent clumping.
  • Avoid lifting lid during cooking.
  • Press tofu well before adding. (Vegan success tip)
  • Use full-fat vegan cream soup for richer texture. (Vegan success tip)
  • Let dish rest before serving to absorb moisture.
  • Add spinach during final 30 minutes for extra nutrients.
  • Season only after cooking finishes.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice provides sustained energy from complex carbohydrates.

Lean protein supports muscle maintenance and fullness.

Vegetarian and vegan versions are cholesterol-free.

Mixed vegetables contribute fiber and antioxidants.

Slow cooking enhances flavor without excessive oil.

Variations (If Any)

  • Swap white rice for brown rice and increase liquid slightly.
  • Add mushrooms for deeper savory flavor.
  • Stir in nutritional yeast for extra umami.
  • Add smoked paprika for warmth.
  • Use quinoa for a higher-protein option.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice in Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice?
Yes, increase liquid by 1/2 cup and extend cooking time.

Is Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers up to 2 months.

How do I prevent mushy rice?
Use proper liquid ratio and avoid overcooking.

Can I make this fully vegan?
Yes, use tofu or soy curls with vegan cream-style soup.

What vegetables work best?
Peas, carrots, broccoli, and green beans hold texture well.

Can I cook only on high?
Yes, 3–4 hours on high works effectively.

How do I thicken the dish?
Allow it to rest uncovered for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Can I prepare this overnight?
Yes, assemble ingredients in the insert and refrigerate until ready to cook.