Are you ready to whip up a tasty meal with minimal effort? I love making slow cooker chicken and rice becuase it’s super easy and absolutely satisfying! With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a comforting dish that warms up any day—who doesn’t love that? Let’s dive into the fun of cooking this tasty recipe together!

Cook Time: 300

Prep Time: 15

Yields: 6

Calories: 909

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this comforting slow cooker chicken and rice dish. Trust me, you’ll want to keep these essentials on hand for an easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth – This is the flavorful base that helps the rice and chicken cook perfectly.
1 cup converted rice – Converted rice stays fluffy and doesn’t become mushy, so it’s crucial for this recipe.
1 onion, chopped – For that delightful aromatic flavor that enhances the dish.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – This adds a touch of tanginess that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – A lovely herb that will infuse the dish with a warm, earthy taste.
1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs – Cut into bite-sized pieces, these will keep the dish juicy and tender.
1 (10-ounce) package frozen peas and carrots – Adding these brings color, texture, and nutrition!
½ teaspoon salt – To season the chicken and enhance the flavors.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – For a little kick!
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – This is the finishing touch that adds richness when the dish is done.
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional) – Use this for a pop of freshness on top.

These simple ingredients will transform into a hearty dish that warms your heart and home. Let’s move on to how we can combine them for a delightful meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this slow cooker chicken and rice dish to life! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day.

Prep Your Slow Cooker: Start by grabbing your 3 ½ to 4-quart slow cooker. This size is perfect for our ingredients!

Combine the Base: In the slow cooker, stir together the chicken broth, converted rice, chopped onion, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Mix well to ensure the rice gets good coverage.

add veggies: Now, toss in the frozen peas and carrots. This will add color and flavor to the dish.

Season the Chicken: Take your bite-sized chicken thighs, and sprinkle them with salt and black pepper. Seasoning them makes sure every piece is full of flavor.

Mix It All Together: Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the slow cooker.Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Set It and Forget It: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5 to 5 ½ hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Finish with Cheese: Once the cooking time is up, remove the lid and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Let it sit for a few minutes to melt before serving. If you want, add some chopped fresh parsley as a fresh garnish.

And there you have it! This recipe is straightforward and truly rewarding. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips for Slow cooker Chicken and Rice

Once your slow cooker chicken and rice is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve it up! This dish is wonderfully versatile, so you can enjoy it in many ways. I like to serve it as a cozy, standalone meal, allowing the flavors of the chicken, rice, and veggies to shine. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Garnish: Before serving, consider sprinkling some fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness.
Sides: For a complete meal, pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious broth.
Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they make a fantastic lunch the next day! Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.

These serving and storage tips will help you enjoy your slow cooker chicken and rice to the fullest, whether you savor it fresh or save it for later!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

Cooking can sometimes be unpredictable, but with these handy notes, you’ll have everything you need for success with your slow cooker chicken and rice. Here are some key points and potential troubleshooting tips:

Rice Type: Using converted rice is essential for this recipe. Other types, like regular white or brown rice, can turn mushy or undercooked due to the longer cooking time.

Thickening the Dish: If you find that your dish is a bit too watery after cooking, simply uncover and let it cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will help reduce the liquid and thicken the dish.

Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste.If you love a bit more spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap out ingredients! For example, you can use chicken breast in place of thighs for a leaner option or add different frozen vegetables like corn or green beans for variety.

Check for Doneness: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through. If it isn’t done, simply cover and cook for another 30 minutes before checking again.

These notes and tips should help you navigate any hiccups along the way, making your cooking experience seamless and enjoyable. Happy cooking!