Creamy Chicken and Rice Slow Cooker Trick

© Original recipe by Taste Threads ©

Creamy Chicken and Rice Slow Cooker Trick 🍗🍚✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, the creamy chicken and rice recipe cooked in a slow cooker is an excellent choice. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious creamy sauce, all simmered to perfection effortlessly. Perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting friends, this slow cooker chicken and rice recipe offers convenience without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re a busy parent or a meal prep enthusiast, learning how to make this creamy chicken and rice recipe will become a household favorite.

2. Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 ½ cups (300g) long-grain white rice
• 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup (120g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Heat a skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken on each side until golden brown—about 3-4 minutes per side. This step enhances flavor but can be skipped if you’re pressed for time. Place the seared chicken in the slow cooker.

Cooking the Rice and Flavor Base

In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent—about 2-3 minutes. Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the rinsed rice, chicken broth, and seasonings. Mix gently to combine.

Slow Cooking to Perfection

Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender. About halfway through, you can check and give it a gentle stir, ensuring that everything cooks evenly.

Adding the Cream and Cheese

Once the cooking time is up and the rice is fluffy, shred the cooked chicken with two forks directly in the cooker or remove and shred on a plate. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until the sauce becomes rich and creamy. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes uncovered until heated through and cheese melts perfectly.

Final Touches and Serving

Serve the creamy chicken and rice hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. For an extra burst of flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.

4. Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until hot. For a creamier consistency upon reheating, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or milk. This dish also freezes well—just ensure it’s cooled completely before packing for freezer storage. To make reheating easier, portion it into individual containers.

5. Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken and rice recipe is versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Top with additional shredded cheese and fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a side of sautéed greens.
• Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• For a spice kick, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute cream for a dairy-free option?

Yes, you can use coconut milk or cashew cream as dairy-free alternatives, which will still produce a creamy texture and delicious flavor.

How long does it take to prepare this creamy chicken and rice dish?

Preparation takes approximately 15-20 minutes, while cooking in the slow cooker takes about 4-6 hours. Overall, it’s a super convenient, hands-off recipe.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like peas, carrots, spinach, or bell peppers during the cooking process for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping. Store in individual containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Enhance your cooking experience with these helpful tools:

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics — Great for quickly roasting vegetables or reheating leftovers to crispy perfection.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup for all your sautéing needs.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Perfect for grilling chicken or preparing side dishes.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange — Makes mixing ingredients or preparing additional sides effortless.

8. Conclusion

Creating a delicious, creamy chicken and rice dinner using a slow cooker is both simple and rewarding. This creamy chicken and rice recipe combines rich flavors with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family. The versatility of this dish means you can customize it with your favorite add-ins and toppings. Give it a try today and enjoy a comforting, hearty meal that everyone will love!

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