Crockpot Chicken and Rice Recipe – Easy Cheesy Comfort Food

Looking for a simple and comforting meal that requires minimal effort? This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe delivers everything you crave in a hearty dinner—tender chicken, creamy melted cheese, and perfectly cooked rice, all infused with rich flavors.

Ideal for busy weeknights, this slow-cooker dish takes care of itself while you focus on other tasks.

With just a handful of ingredients, this meal is kid-friendly, satisfying, and incredibly easy to customize.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for leftovers, this cheesy chicken and rice recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Keep reading for tips on substitutions, variations, and storage solutions to make this dish even more versatile.

What Is Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice?

This Crockpot Chicken and Rice recipe is a creamy, cheesy one-pot dish made effortlessly in a slow cooker.

Juicy chicken breasts cook until tender, then get shredded and combined with cooked rice, cheddar cheese, and a blend of seasonings for a comforting, well-balanced meal.

The slow-cooking process enhances the flavors while keeping everything moist and creamy, making this dish a stress-free dinner option for any night of the week.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken and Rice

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Optional Additions

• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables – Adds texture and nutrients.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – For a spicy kick.
• ½ cup sour cream – Enhances the creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds a mild tangy depth.
• ¼ cup cooked crumbled bacon – Gives a smoky crunch.

Substitutions and Variations

• Brown Rice: Use brown rice instead of white rice, but adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to soften.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy-free cheese and coconut milk for the cheddar and whole milk.
• Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Replace the chicken with canned chickpeas or extra-firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Different Cheeses: Swap out cheddar for Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a different cheese blend.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken and Rice in the Crockpot

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Grease the inside of your Crockpot with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add the Ingredients

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour in chicken broth and condensed cream of chicken soup, ensuring the chicken is fully coated.

Step 3: Cook on Low

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours (or on HIGH for 3-4 hours) until the chicken is fork-tender and easily shreds.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken breasts, shred them using two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.

Step 5: Add Rice and Cheese

Stir in uncooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, whole milk, and butter. Mix well to distribute everything evenly.

Step 6: Cook Until Rice is Tender

Cover again and cook for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once the rice is cooked, stir everything one last time. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Cooking the Rice Separately: Uncooked rice needs time to absorb the broth, so don’t rush the process.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long on HIGH can dry it out—LOW and slow is best for the most tender meat.
• Using Instant Rice: Stick with long-grain rice—instant rice will turn mushy in the slow cooker.
• Skipping the Cheese at the End: Adding the cheese too early can cause it to clump or overcook—stir it in once the rice is cooked for the best texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Family-Style Dinner: Serve straight from the Crockpot onto plates with a side of steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables.
• Taco Night Twist: Use leftovers as a cheesy filling for burritos or tacos with a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Meal Prep Bowls: Store in meal-prep containers and pair with sautéed spinach or green beans for a balanced meal.
• Garnish: Sprinkle extra shredded cheese, chopped parsley, or a dollop of sour cream on top before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to keep the dish creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Simply shred the cooked rotisserie chicken and stir it into the slow cooker when adding the rice and cheese.

Can I make this on the stovetop instead?
Yes! Cook the chicken separately in a large pot, then add cooked rice and cheese at the end for a faster version.

What if my rice isn’t fully cooked?
If the rice is still firm after 45 minutes, add ¼ cup of broth, cover, and cook for an extra 15-20 minutes.

Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to thaw the chicken before slow cooking to ensure even cooking. Using frozen chicken may increase cooking time.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free condensed soup to make this recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice recipe is the ultimate comfort food, offering rich, creamy flavors with minimal prep work.

Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight, meal-prepping for the week, or feeding a crowd, this slow cooker favorite will always satisfy.

Customizable, hearty, and easy to make, this dish is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Try it today and enjoy a warm, cheesy bowl of homemade goodness!