Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Rice: I recommend using white rice like long-grain or jasmine for the best texture. If you want a healthier option, quinoa can be a great substitute. It’s packed with protein and cooks nicely in the crockpot, though cooking times might vary.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this dish lean, but you can swap them for chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture. They will work well in the recipe!

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is delicious and adds a nice crunch. If it’s not in season, frozen broccoli works too, just make sure to thaw it first to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Cheese: While cheddar and mozzarella are great, feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack adds a lovely creamy texture, or include pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Sour Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be a wonderful swap for sour cream. It still offers creaminess and a slight tang.

How Do I Ensure My Rice is Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking rice in a crockpot can sometimes be tricky. Key to success is making sure you have the right liquid to rice ratio. Here’s how to get it just right:

• Always rinse your rice under cold water for a few minutes. This removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming gummy.
• The ideal rice-to-broth ratio here is 1:1.25, meaning for every cup of rice, add 1.25 cups of liquid. Adjust as needed based on your crockpot model.
• Avoid lifting the lid too often while cooking to keep steam locked in. This helps the rice cook evenly.

By following these tips, your rice will turn out fluffy and flavorful every time!

Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Dish:

• 2 cups uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine)
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (can substitute with frozen, thawed)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup milk or cream (to stir in at the end for extra creaminess)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 4-5 hours for cooking on low. It’s perfect for a busy day when you can set it and forget it!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crockpot:

Start by spraying the crockpot insert with non-stick cooking spray or lightly greasing it with butter. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier later on.

2. Rinse the Rice:

Rinse the uncooked rice in cold water for a few minutes until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch and ensures fluffy rice. Once rinsed, spread the rice evenly at the bottom of the crockpot.

3. Add Liquid and Seasonings:

Pour the chicken broth over the rice. Add in the chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme, if you’re using it. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

4. Add Chicken:

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Remember, cooking times may vary based on your crockpot model!

5. Shred the Chicken:

Once the chicken is fully cooked, shred it inside the crockpot using two forks. This will distribute the chicken throughout the dish, adding flavor to the rice.

6. Add Broccoli and Cheese:

Add the broccoli florets evenly over the shredded chicken and rice. Then, sprinkle both the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Cover the crockpot and switch to high heat, cooking for another 15-20 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melted.

7. Stir in Creaminess:

Turn off the crockpot and stir in the sour cream, butter, and milk or cream until everything is well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust any seasoning if needed.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the dish warm, and if you’d like, top it with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese or freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy this comforting and cheesy meal!

Perfect for those busy days, this Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is sure to please everyone at the table!

FAQ for Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and the liquid ratio. Brown rice typically requires more broth and a longer cooking time (about 6-8 hours on low) to become tender. Make sure to check the package instructions for the specific measurements!

Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?

Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra flavor, or even cubed tofu for a vegetarian option. If substituting tofu, add it during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking to keep it from getting too soft.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if it seems dry.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients and place them in the crockpot the night before. Just cover and refrigerate. In the morning, you can set it to cook while you’re at work or running errands!