This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice dish is a comforting, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights.
It combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese, all cooked together in your slow cooker for a hassle-free dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only simple to make but also offers a delicious way to get your family to enjoy veggies. It’s a complete meal that’s filling and flavorful, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to save time in the kitchen without sacrificing taste!
How To Make Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In the crockpot, add the chicken breast, broccoli florets, and uncooked rice.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the cream of chicken soup.
- Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before it’s done, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time And Nutrition Facts
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 6-8 hours to cook on low (or 3-4 hours on high), making a total time of around 6-8 hours. It serves 4 people and each serving has approximately 350 calories, with a good balance of protein (about 30g) and fat (around 15g).
How To Serve Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Serve this dish warm straight from the crockpot, garnished with extra cheese if desired. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up all the cheesy goodness.
How To Store Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to restore the creaminess.
Tips To Make Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
- For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with your favorite spices before adding it to the crockpot.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can reduce the chicken broth slightly.
- Try adding other vegetables like carrots or peas for more variety and nutrients.
Health And Benefits Of This Recipe
This recipe is packed with protein from the chicken, which helps build and repair tissues. The broccoli adds fiber and important vitamins like C and K, while the cheddar cheese provides calcium for strong bones. It’s a well-rounded meal that combines protein, healthy fats, and lots of vegetables, making it both nutritious and filling!
Variation
For a different twist, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, or use a different type of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breast?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast. Just adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to cook through.
Can I add other vegetables?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, if you use gluten-free cream of chicken soup, this recipe can be made gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
- You can use low-fat cream of chicken soup and reduce the amount of cheese to lower the fat content.
What can I serve with this dish?
- This dish is complete on its own, but you can serve it with a green salad or crusty bread if you like.
Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
- The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink inside.