Description of this recipe
This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal effort and delivering maximum flavor. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is incredibly moist and flavorful, while the rice absorbs all the delicious broth. The addition of broccoli adds a healthy dose of vitamins and a delightful texture contrast. Finally, the cheddar cheese creates a gooey, melty blanket that brings everything together in perfect harmony.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll adore this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice because it’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other tasks. It’s also a customizable recipe – you can easily swap out the cheddar cheese for your favorite cheese, add different vegetables, or adjust the seasonings to your liking. This recipe is also budget-friendly, using inexpensive ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra vegetables for picky eaters! The creamy, cheesy sauce is irresistible, and the combination of flavors and textures is sure to please even the most discerning palates. Leftovers are just as delicious, making it a perfect meal prep option for lunches or future dinners. Overall, this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a foolproof recipe that will become a staple in your household.
Introduction
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome and satisfying meal can be a challenge. That’s where the Crockpot comes to the rescue! This slow cooker marvel allows you to create flavorful and comforting dishes with minimal effort. The Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a perfect example of a recipe that harnesses the power of slow cooking to transform simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. This dish is not only incredibly easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients. The tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli are bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or simply someone who enjoys delicious food without the fuss, this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is sure to become a new favorite. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs. So, gather your ingredients, plug in your Crockpot, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Begin by placing the two large boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your Crockpot. Ensure they are evenly distributed to promote uniform cooking. Season the chicken generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. The amount of seasoning can be adjusted to your personal preference, but these spices provide a foundational flavor profile that complements the other ingredients. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices like Italian seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. Evenly coat each side of the chicken breasts with the spice mixture.
Step 2: Add Rice and Broth
Next, sprinkle one cup of long-grain white rice evenly over the seasoned chicken breasts. Make sure the rice is distributed in a single layer to ensure it cooks properly. Then, carefully pour two cups of chicken broth over the top of the rice and chicken. It’s crucial to ensure that the rice is fully submerged in the broth; this allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors. If necessary, add a little more broth until the rice is completely covered. Gently stir the mixture to ensure the rice is evenly dispersed and not clumped together.
Step 3: Cook
Once the ingredients are layered in the Crockpot, cover it securely with the lid. Now, it’s time to let the slow cooker work its magic. You have two cooking options: you can cook the mixture on low heat for 4-5 hours, or on high heat for 2-3 hours. Cooking on low heat will result in a more tender and flavorful chicken, as the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together gradually. Cooking on high heat is a faster option, but be sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked through. The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
After the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the Crockpot and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. The slow cooking process should have made the chicken incredibly tender, so it should shred easily. Once the chicken is shredded, return it to the Crockpot, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the rice and broth mixture.
Step 5: Add Broccoli and Cheese
Now, it’s time to add the remaining ingredients that will transform this dish into cheesy, broccoli-filled perfection. Stir in two cups of fresh or frozen broccoli florets. If using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it beforehand; it will cook perfectly in the Crockpot. Next, add one cup of shredded cheddar cheese and one-half cup of heavy cream or milk. The cheddar cheese will melt into a gooey, delicious sauce, while the heavy cream or milk will add richness and creaminess. Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring the broccoli is evenly dispersed and the cheese is well distributed.
Step 6: Final Cooking
Cover the Crockpot again and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes on high heat, until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is completely melted. Keep a close eye on the mixture during this final cooking period, as you don’t want the cheese to burn or the broccoli to become overcooked. The goal is to achieve tender-crisp broccoli and a smooth, melted cheese sauce that coats all the ingredients.
Step 7: Serve
Once the final cooking time is complete, stir everything together one last time to ensure all the ingredients are evenly combined. Serve the Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice warm, garnished with extra shredded cheddar cheese, if desired. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and visual appeal. This dish is delicious on its own or served alongside a simple side salad or crusty bread.
COOKING Rating: 5/5 – An easy to make and family friendly dish.
Serving Suggestions:
This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a complete meal in itself, but it can also be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a more elaborate meal. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus. It also goes well with a side of coleslaw or a simple tomato salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a baked potato. The versatility of this dish makes it a perfect choice for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to potlucks and gatherings.
Tips:
- For a creamier sauce, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Add other vegetables like carrots, corn, or peas for added nutrients and flavor.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.
- Add a can of cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup for an even richer sauce.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- To prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the Crockpot, spray the bottom with cooking spray before adding the ingredients.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts.
- To make this dish ahead of time, assemble all the ingredients in the Crockpot and store it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply plug in the Crockpot and cook according to the instructions.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2-5 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes – 5 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 30-40 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 500-700 mg per serving
Conclusion
The Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a winner in so many ways. It’s easy, delicious, and customizable, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is tender and flavorful, while the rice absorbs all the delicious broth. The addition of broccoli adds a healthy dose of vitamins and a delightful texture contrast. And, of course, the cheddar cheese creates a gooey, melty blanket that brings everything together in perfect harmony. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, loved by both kids and adults. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables. So, next time you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort, give this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. I recommend adding an extra hour or two to the cooking time and checking the rice periodically to ensure it’s cooked through. Also, you may need to add a little more chicken broth, as brown rice tends to absorb more liquid than white rice.
Q2: Can I use frozen chicken breasts instead of fresh chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through. I recommend adding an extra hour to the cooking time. Also, make sure the chicken breasts are separated before placing them in the Crockpot to ensure they cook evenly.
Q3: Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite flavor combination. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses would all work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that different cheeses have different melting properties, so the texture of the sauce may vary slightly.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Definitely! This recipe is very versatile, and you can easily add other vegetables to customize it to your liking. Carrots, corn, peas, mushrooms, or even bell peppers would all be great additions. Just add the vegetables along with the broccoli in Step 5.
Q5: Can I make this recipe without using a Crockpot?
A: While this recipe is specifically designed for a Crockpot, you can adapt it to be made on the stovetop or in the oven. To make it on the stovetop, combine all the ingredients in a large pot or Dutch oven and simmer over low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. To make it in the oven, combine all the ingredients in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
