Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe
Warm, comforting, and oh-so-cheesy, this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe is the perfect dish for busy families looking to get a wholesome meal on the table with minimal fuss. Packed with flavors and nutrition, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe:
- Flavorful: The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender chicken and fresh broccoli makes every bite irresistible.
- Simple Preparation: Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you!
- Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for making ahead of time; simply reheat for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Family-Friendly: Kids can’t resist cheesy meals, and this dish is a great way to sneak in some veggies.
Ingredients Needed:
- Protein:2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Grains:1 cup long-grain white rice
- Broth:2 cups chicken broth
- Creamy Base:1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- Vegetables:2 cups broccoli florets
- Cheese:2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Spices:1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add the rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Remove the chicken from the crockpot, shred it using two forks, and return it to the crockpot.
- Stir in the broccoli and shredded cheese, then cover and cook for another 30 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Pair this delightful dish with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness. For a fresh twist, consider a squeeze of lemon juice on top just before serving.
Tips for Success with Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
- Don’t Overcook: Make sure to check the chicken around the 4-hour mark. Depending on your crockpot, it may cook faster.
- Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix it up with a blend of your favorite cheeses for added flavor.
- Frozen Broccoli: If you’re short on time, using frozen broccoli florets is an easy shortcut.
- Extra Flavor: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some Italian seasoning for an additional flavor boost.
Variations
- Add Different Veggies: Try adding peapods or bell peppers for a colorful twist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who love a bit of heat.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but be aware that brown rice will require a longer cooking time. You might need to increase the cooking duration by an hour to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this recipe without the heavy cream?
Absolutely! You can use a can of evaporated milk or a blend of Greek yogurt with a little chicken broth for a lighter option.
Can leftovers be stored?
Yes! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Grains
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
Broth
- 2 cups chicken broth
Creamy Base
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add the rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Remove the chicken from the crockpot, shred it using two forks, and return it to the crockpot.
- Stir in the broccoli and shredded cheese, then cover and cook for another 30 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melted.
Serving
- Serve warm and enjoy!
