Looking for a hearty and comforting meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further! Our Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves rich flavors and easy cooking. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice, all infused with savory seasonings. Read on to discover the magic behind this mouthwatering recipe and get ready to indulge in a meal that's sure to become a family favorite.

What is Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice?
Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a delightful one-pot meal that brings together succulent chicken thighs, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked rice. Using a slow cooker, this recipe allows the ingredients to meld together over several hours, resulting in a dish that's both flavorful and incredibly satisfying. It's a perfect solution for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss.
Ingredients List for Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice
Before you get started, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here's what you'll need:
- 4 small chicken thighs (with skin and bones in)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon parsley
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10 oz)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups uncooked Jasmine rice
Equipment Needed
To make this delicious recipe, you'll need the following equipment:
- 1 slow cooker (crockpot)
- 1 pan (for browning the chicken)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Chicken Thighs: Substitute with chicken breasts or even boneless, skinless thighs if you prefer a leaner cut.
- Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots to suit your taste.
- Rice: While Jasmine rice is recommended, you can use other types of rice like basmati or long-grain rice. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice meal:
- Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, ½ teaspoon of pepper, and parsley flakes.
- Brown the Chicken: In a pan on the stovetop, brown the outsides of the chicken thighs. Note that you don't need to cook the insides as they will cook in the slow cooker.
- Prepare the Crockpot: Pour the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, and remaining pepper into your crockpot. Whisk together until well combined.
- Add the Rice: Pour the uncooked Jasmine rice evenly across the bottom of the pot.
- Layer the Ingredients: Add the diced onions, then the broccoli florets, and finally the cheese, spreading each layer out evenly.
- Add the Chicken: Lay the browned chicken thighs on top of the layered ingredients and close the lid.
How to Cook Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking this recipe is straightforward and stress-free. Here's a detailed guide:
- Cook on Low: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 5-6 hours. This slow cooking process ensures the chicken is tender and the rice is perfectly cooked.
- Check for Doneness: After 5-6 hours, check if the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove the chicken thighs and plate them. Stir the rice mixture to combine the flavors and serve alongside the chicken. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle more cheddar cheese on top before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:
- Not Browning the Chicken: Browning the chicken adds a depth of flavor that's hard to achieve if skipped.
- Uneven Layering: Make sure to layer the ingredients evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Overcooking: Cooking for too long can result in mushy rice and dry chicken. Keep an eye on the cooking time.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation matters, even for a comforting dish like this. Here are some tips to elevate your serving:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Use a Serving Platter: Serve the chicken and rice on a large platter to create an inviting and communal feel.
- Add Extra Cheese: For cheese lovers, a final sprinkle of sharp cheddar on top of the hot dish will melt beautifully and add an extra layer of flavor.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice
When it comes to serving this dish, simplicity is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Individual Plates: Portion out the chicken thighs and rice onto individual plates for easy serving.
- Family Style: For a more casual meal, serve the chicken and rice directly from the crockpot, allowing everyone to help themselves.
Presentation Ideas for Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice
Elevate your meal with these presentation ideas:
- Rustic Charm: Serve in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon on the side.
- Plated Elegance: Arrange the chicken thighs on one side of the plate and mold the rice into a neat mound using a cup or mold. Garnish with a few broccoli florets and a sprinkle of cheese.
Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe Tips
Here are some additional tips to make your dish even better:
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare all the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just add them to the crockpot and set it to cook.
- Cheese Layer: For an extra cheesy layer, add a bit of cheese halfway through the cooking process.
- Stirring: Resist the urge to stir the ingredients while cooking to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to thaw and brown them before adding to the crockpot.
Q: What if I don't have a slow cooker?
A: You can use an oven-safe dish and cook in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 2-3 hours, covered with foil.
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of Jasmine rice?
A: Yes, but note that brown rice has a longer cooking time and may require more liquid.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix.
Conclusion
Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a delicious, comforting meal that's perfect for any day of the week. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Don’t forget to experiment with variations and make it your own!
PrintCrockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe
Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken thighs, creamy cheese, and flavorful rice, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a hands-off approach to a hearty, satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes - 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 4 small chicken thighs (with skin and bones in)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tbsp parsley
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10 oz)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups uncooked Jasmine rice
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and parsley.
- In a pan, brown the chicken thighs until golden.
- Add chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, and diced onion to the slow cooker.
- Place the browned chicken thighs into the slow cooker.
- Add broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, and uncooked Jasmine rice.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken and rice are fully cooked and tender.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked before serving.
- Add extra cheese for a cheesier dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
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