This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a comforting meal that’s made right in your slow cooker! With tender chicken, creamy cheese, and bright broccoli, it’s a family favorite.
I love how simple it is to throw everything in the crockpot and let it cook slowly. Plus, the cheesy goodness makes it hard to resist seconds. Who can say no to that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe because they stay tender and juicy. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be used instead for a richer flavor.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal, as it cooks up fluffy. You could substitute with brown rice, but be aware it will alter cooking time and how much liquid you need. Quinoa is also a good option for a gluten-free choice!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets lend a nice crunch and color, but frozen broccoli can be used as an easy alternative. Just ensure it’s thawed before adding to the crockpot.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a strong cheesy flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. Feel free to mix it up with your favorite cheese, like pepper jack for a bit of spice or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Sour Cream: Sour cream adds creaminess and a slight tang. Greek yogurt can be substituted for a healthier option. Just make sure it’s plain for the best results.
How Do I Ensure My Rice is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking rice perfectly in a crockpot can sometimes be tricky. To get tender rice every time, follow these steps:
- Make sure to add the rice before the broth in the crockpot. It helps evenly distribute moisture.
- Resist the urge to open the lid too often during cooking, as this releases the steam needed for cooking.
- If using brown rice, you may need to add more liquid and adjust the cooking time. Brown rice usually takes longer to fully cook.
Keeping these tips in mind will help you achieve fluffy rice along with your cheesy chicken and broccoli!
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 4 to 5 hours to cook on low, or 2 to 2.5 hours on high. Once it’s finished, you’ll have a warm, cheesy meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by lightly greasing the inside of your crockpot with olive oil or butter. This will help prevent the food from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Add the Rice:
Place the uncooked rice into the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the rice to ensure it cooks properly.
3. Combine Onions and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic into the crockpot. Give everything a good stir to mix together with the rice and broth.
4. Add the Chicken:
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture, making sure it’s spread out evenly.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for about 2 to 2.5 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
6. Shred the Chicken:
About 30 minutes before serving, carefully shred or cube the cooked chicken inside the crockpot. Stir it into the rice mixture for even distribution.
7. Add the Broccoli:
Place the broccoli florets on top of the chicken and rice mixture. This will help them steam nicely without becoming too mushy.
8. Stir in the Cheeses:
Add the sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the crockpot. Mix everything well until the cheeses melt and everything is nice and creamy.
9. Finish Cooking:
Cover the crockpot and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant in color.
10. Serve:
Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Now, scoop it into bowls and enjoy your deliciously creamy, cheesy, and comforting Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice!
FAQ About Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it requires additional cooking time and more liquid. Generally, brown rice takes about 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the crockpot. Be sure to adjust the chicken broth accordingly—add an extra 1/2 cup of liquid for best results!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten this dish, consider using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for moisture and flavor. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use low-fat cheese or reduce the cheese quantity while adding extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition!
Can I Prepare This Meal in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble all the ingredients (except for the cheeses and broccoli) in the crockpot the night before. Simply refrigerate overnight, and in the morning, cook as directed. Just add the broccoli and cheeses in the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to help restore creaminess. Enjoy your leftovers while they last!
