This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and gooey cheese all cooked together in one pot. It’s super simple to make!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself while you go about your day? I often pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying dinner. Yum!
I really appreciate how it all comes together with minimal effort. Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic—so easy and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Rice: Long grain or jasmine rice works best here, giving a nice fluffy texture. If you prefer, you can use brown rice, just note it will take longer to cook.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this dish easy. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut—just add it towards the end to warm it up!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and texture, but frozen works in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw it before adding to ensure even cooking.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a rich flavor while mozzarella adds creaminess. Feel free to switch these for other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, depending on your taste!
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess, but if you want a healthier version, opt for a homemade cream sauce or use a can of cream of mushroom soup.
What’s the Best Way to Shred Chicken in a Crockpot?
Shredding chicken in a crockpot is simple and hassle-free. Once the chicken is cooked through, here’s how to do it effectively:
- Use two forks to pull apart the chicken easily. Start from the thicker part and work your way to the edges.
- Make sure the chicken is hot, as it shreds better when warm.
- Don’t worry about getting it perfect; it doesn’t have to be uniform!
Shredded chicken mixes well with the rice, making each bite delicious. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
Cheesy Goodness:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and 4 to 5 hours to cook on low heat in the crockpot. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it on high for about 2 to 3 hours. Either way, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that will fill your home with a lovely aroma!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Crockpot:
Start by spraying the crockpot insert with nonstick spray or lightly greasing it with butter to keep everything from sticking.
2. Add the Rice:
Rinse the uncooked rice quickly in cold water, then spread it evenly across the bottom of the crockpot. This helps it cook perfectly!
3. Layer the Chicken:
Carefully place the chicken breasts on top of the rice. Sprinkle the minced garlic, diced onion (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken. This layers the flavors beautifully!
4. Add the Liquids:
Pour the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup over the chicken and rice. Don’t stir it at this point. This layering helps achieve the right consistency.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender. If you’re short on time, you can set it to HIGH for 2 to 3 hours.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done cooking, take two forks and shred it directly in the crockpot. The chicken should be tender and pull apart easily!
7. Add Broccoli and Cheese:
Now, add the broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and butter (if you’re using it) to the pot. Gently stir everything together to mix it well.
8. Final Cooking:
Cover it again and cook on HIGH for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the cheese has melted, making it creamy and delicious.
9. Season to Taste:
Before serving, taste your dish and add more salt and pepper if needed to enhance the flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, serve your warm, cheesy chicken broccoli rice and enjoy this comforting meal with your family or friends!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. If using brown rice, increase the cooking time to about 5 to 6 hours on low or adjust the liquid to about 4 cups for the best results.
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless thighs or even turkey. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for chickpeas or a meat substitute like tofu. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or carrots. Just make sure they are cut into small pieces for even cooking. Add these in with the broccoli in the last phase of cooking for the best results.
