When life gets hectic, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Savory Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole comes to the rescue! This dish is not only simple to prepare, but it also infuses your home with delicious aromas while it cooks. Perfect for busy nights, this comforting casserole is bound to become a family favorite, offering both flavor and convenience.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole:
- Effortless Meal Prep: Simply combine ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do all the work!
- Flavorful Comfort Food: Creamy chicken and cheesy rice make for a delicious combination that warms the soul.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish; it’s delicious and satisfying!
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or additional spices for a personal touch.
Ingredients Needed:
- Protein:
- 2 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Sauce:
- 10.5 ounces Cream of chicken soup (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup Chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- Spices:
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
- Rice:
- 1 cup Instant rice (or traditional rice, may require longer cooking)
- Toppings:
- 1.5 cups Shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Layer Ingredients: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Add the Rice: Scatter the instant rice evenly over the top of the chicken and sauce.
- Set the Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Add the Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top, allowing it to melt.
- Serve and Enjoy: Stir the dish, combining everything before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Savory Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole
This casserole pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls.
Tips for Success with Savory Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Chicken Options: You can substitute the chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier result.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.
- Flavor Boost: Add chopped onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: This dish keeps well in the fridge for several days and reheats perfectly.
- Freezing: Portion out leftovers and freeze for a quick meal on another busy night.
Variations
Feel free to customize this casserole by adding your favorite frozen vegetables, such as peas or carrots, right into the slow cooker for added nutrition without extra prep.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice usually requires a longer cooking time, so consider cooking it partially before adding it to the slow cooker.
Can I make this casserole in an oven instead? Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 350°F, and bake in a covered casserole dish for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
How do I store leftovers? Allow the casserole to cool before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months.
This Savory Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate solution for busy nights, combining ease with unbeatable flavor! Enjoy this comforting dish and make your hectic evenings a little bit cozier.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Sauce
- 10.5 ounces Cream of chicken soup (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup Chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
Spices
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Rice
- 1 cup Instant rice (or traditional rice, may require longer cooking)
Toppings
- 1.5 cups Shredded cheddar cheese (divided) Use 1 cup for cooking and reserve 0.5 cup for topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Scatter the instant rice evenly over the top of the chicken and sauce.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top, allowing it to melt.
Serving
- Stir the dish, combining everything before serving.
