Crockpot meals are a lifesaver for busy families looking to put a delicious dinner on the table without breaking the bank.
With minimal ingredients and prep time, these recipes not only save you money but are also perfect for those hectic weekdays.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone seeking convenience and flavor. It uses just five simple ingredients and allows you to throw everything in the crockpot, set it, and forget it! You’ll end up with a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
How To Make Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of uncooked rice
- 1 pound of chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables
Directions:
- Start by placing the uncooked rice at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Layer the chicken breasts on top of the rice.
- Pour the cream of chicken soup over the chicken.
- Add the chicken broth and frozen mixed vegetables.
- Stir gently to combine the ingredients without disturbing the rice at the bottom.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Prep Time And Nutrition Facts
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 4 hours to cook on low, making a total of 4 hours and 10 minutes. It serves 4 people, and each serving has about 400 calories, 30g of protein, and 10g of fat.
How To Serve Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice
Serve this dish warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if desired. It pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
How To Store Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months; just reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips To Make Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice
- For added flavor, season the chicken with your favorite herbs or spices before cooking.
- You can substitute the rice with quinoa or another grain for a different texture.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Health And Benefits Of This Recipe
This recipe is packed with protein from the chicken, making it a filling option for dinner. The inclusion of mixed vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals, while the rice serves as a good source of carbohydrates for energy. Overall, it’s a balanced meal that provides nourishment without excess fat or calories.
Variation (If Any)
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing chicken with flavorful beans or lentils and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using milk, flour, and chicken seasoning.Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, just reduce the cooking time to about 3-4 hours on high.Is it safe to cook frozen chicken in the crockpot?
It is recommended to thaw chicken before cooking in a crockpot for safety reasons.How do I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before cooking for an added kick.Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, just add the leftover cooked chicken at the last hour of cooking to heat through.