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Easy Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Rice Recipe Perfect for Busy Weeknights

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A creamy, hearty, and comforting crockpot chicken and rice dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This dump-and-go recipe delivers tender chicken and fluffy rice with a velvety sauce made from cream cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (190 grams), rinsed
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (600 ml), low sodium preferred
  • 4 ounces cream cheese (115 grams), softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for sautéing garlic)
  • Optional add-ins: 1 cup frozen peas or chopped carrots
  • Optional add-ins: shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice briefly under cold water until the water runs clear to reduce excess starch. Mince garlic cloves finely. Soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature or microwaving for 15 seconds.
  2. Optional: In a small skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned (about 1-2 minutes).
  3. Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle with onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the rinsed rice evenly over the chicken. Then pour the chicken broth (and sautéed garlic if used) over the rice and chicken. Do not stir.
  5. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-7 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
  6. Check for doneness: chicken should be cooked through (165°F / 74°C), and rice tender but not mushy. If rice is still firm, add more broth and cook 15-20 minutes longer.
  7. Remove chicken breasts and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot. Add softened cream cheese and stir gently until sauce is creamy and smooth.
  8. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese and cover until melted.
  9. Serve immediately.

Notes

Rinse rice to reduce starch and prevent sticking. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat. Soften cream cheese before adding to avoid lumps. Shred chicken after cooking for better texture. Add frozen peas or carrots 30 minutes before end of cooking for extra nutrition and color. Let dish rest 10 minutes before serving to thicken sauce. For dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream. For low-carb, swap rice with cauliflower rice added in last hour.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken, creamy chicken and rice, slow cooker recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, chicken rice casserole

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/easy-creamy-crockpot-chicken-and-rice-recipe-perfect-for-busy-weeknights/