This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a comforting meal all in one pot! Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese come together for a dish that’s oh-so-delicious.
I love how I can just toss everything in and let the crockpot work its magic. Plus, the cheesy goodness makes it a hit with the kids too. What’s better than an easy clean-up?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook evenly in the crockpot. If you’re looking for a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great substitute.
Rice: Long grain white rice is the base here, but brown rice or jasmine rice can also be used. Just note you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time for different types of rice.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch but using frozen broccoli is okay too. Just make sure it’s thawed and drained to avoid adding excess moisture.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great flavor, but you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a creamy texture. Vegan cheese can also be used for a dairy-free option.
Sour Cream/Cream Cheese: Both options add creaminess to the dish. Greek yogurt is a healthier substitute if you’re looking to lighten things up!
How Do I Ensure the Rice and Chicken Cook Perfectly Together?
The secret to cooking the rice and chicken together in the crockpot is layering and timing. Start by adding your rice, then pour in the chicken broth. This helps the rice cook evenly without burning. Here’s the step-by-step:
- Grease the crockpot to prevent sticking.
- Mix the rice with broth, onion, and garlic; this hydrates the rice well.
- Place the seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture—do not stir! This keeps the chicken from drying out.
- Set the crockpot to low for 4 to 5 hours. This low and slow method ensures the chicken stays juicy and the rice absorbs all the flavor.
Stir in the broccoli and cheese about 30 minutes before it’s done. This timing keeps the broccoli bright and the cheese melty, creating a creamy finish to your dish!
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice, uncooked
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing the crockpot
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and then you let the crockpot do the work for 4 to 5 hours on low. So, you’re looking at about 4 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy a delicious, cheesy meal without any hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by lightly greasing the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or a little oil. This will help prevent sticking and make clean-up easier later on.
2. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In the crockpot, add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Give everything a good stir to combine. This combination helps the rice absorb all those tasty flavors as it cooks!
3. Add the Chicken:
Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture in the crockpot. Don’t stir this layer; just leave the chicken on top to lock in its moisture during cooking.
4. Cook It Up:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through. It’s going to smell amazing!
5. Mix in the Broccoli and Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the broccoli florets, sour cream (or cream cheese), and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This is when the dish starts to transform into a creamy delight!
6. Finish Cooking:
Cover it again and let it cook until the broccoli is tender and the cheese has melted. This’ll take about 30 more minutes.
7. Final Touches:
Once it’s done cooking, give everything a good stir to mix the creamy goodness throughout the dish. Then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, cover it for a couple of minutes, and let it melt.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving and enjoy your comforting, creamy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice warm. It’s an easy, delicious meal perfect for busy nights!
This recipe yields a scrumptious, cheesy casserole with tender chicken and broccoli, all made effortlessly in your crockpot. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ About Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using frozen chicken breasts, make sure they are fully thawed before adding them to the crockpot. It’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick method by placing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just combine everything in the crockpot in the morning and set it to cook. Alternatively, you can cook the dish and store the leftovers for up to 3 days in the fridge.
What Should I Do if the Rice or Chicken Isn’t Fully Cooked?
If you find that the rice or chicken isn’t fully cooked at the end of the recommended cooking time, simply cover the crockpot and cook for an additional 30 minutes on low. The slow cooking process helps ensure everything cooks evenly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to help revive the moisture in the dish.
