This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a warm hug in a bowl. It’s made with tender chicken, bright broccoli, and gooey cheese, all cooked together in your crockpot.
I love how simple it is! Just toss everything in and let the crockpot work its magic. Dinner is ready, and cleanup is a breeze—sounds like a win to me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their extra moisture, but breasts work just as well! You can even swap for rotisserie chicken for quicker prep—just add it toward the end to avoid overcooking.
Rice: Long grain white rice is great for this dish as it cooks nicely without becoming mushy. If you want a healthier option, use brown rice, but adjust the cooking time since it needs more liquid and a longer cooking period.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, bringing the dish’s creaminess and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try Pepper Jack for a bit of heat or use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a lighter option.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is wonderful, but frozen broccoli florets can save time and are just as nutritious. Just be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid extra moisture.
How Do I Ensure My Rice and Chicken Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the rice and chicken together in the crockpot is simple, but timing is key! Follow these tips to get it just right:
- Layer correctly: Place the chicken at the bottom, followed by rice. This way, the chicken’s juices help cook the rice.
- Cooking time: Stick to the recommended times—LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 1.5-2 hours. Check if the chicken is cooked to 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Shred the chicken: About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken in the crockpot. It allows the flavors to meld while the broccoli cooks.
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1½ to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2½ cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
For the Cheesy Goodness:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
For Flavor:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus cooking time: 3 to 4 hours on LOW or 1½ to 2 hours on HIGH. A little patience rewards you with a hearty and creamy dish that practically makes itself!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This helps everything come out smoothly later.
2. Add the Chicken:
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the crockpot. Don’t worry about cutting them—they’ll shred easily later!
3. Layer the Rice:
Evenly sprinkle the uncooked rice over the chicken. This will absorb all the flavors from the chicken and broth as it cooks.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Top the rice with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Their flavors will bring the dish to life!
5. Pour in the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over everything. Season with salt, black pepper, and your choice of Italian seasoning. This gives your dish the perfect flavor boost!
6. Cooking Time:
Cover and set your crockpot to cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or on HIGH for 1½ to 2 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. You can check if the chicken is fully cooked by ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Shred the Chicken:
About 30 minutes before serving, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. This allows it to soak up more flavors.
8. Add Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets and gently stir them into the rice mixture. They will cook nicely, adding vibrant color and nutrition.
9. Bring on the Creaminess:
Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and add 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese along with the mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together until all the cheese is melted.
10. Final Cooking:
Cover and cook on LOW for another 20 to 30 minutes until the broccoli is tender, and everything is creamy and delicious.
11. Add Extra Cheese:
Before serving, stir in the remaining cheddar cheese and butter, if you’re using it. This will add a wonderful richness to your dish!
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out servings straight from the crockpot while it’s hot and gooey. Enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones!
Happy cooking! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to cook it on HIGH for the initial cook time (about 2 to 2½ hours) to ensure it cooks through safely. Keep an eye on the chicken’s internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses long grain white rice. Just ensure your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain hidden gluten.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or peas. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly for denser vegetables.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
