This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice dish is a warm and comforting meal. It combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese all in one pot—perfect for busy days!
I love how easy it is to toss everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic. Plus, who can resist a cheesy, gooey dinner? My family digs right in every time! 🧀😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully here. If you’re looking for a substitution, boneless thighs add extra moisture and flavor. You can also use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best texture and flavor, but frozen works just as well; no need to thaw it beforehand! For a twist, try using frozen spinach or mixed vegetables for added nutrition and color.
Rice: Long-grain rice is perfect for this dish, but if you need a substitute, jasmine or basmati rice can work too. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary and adjust the liquid if needed.
Cream of Chicken Soup: If you’re looking for a healthier or more natural option, try using homemade cream of chicken soup or a low-sodium version. Coconut milk can also be a great dairy-free substitute!
Cheddar Cheese: While I recommend sharp cheddar for a wonderful flavor, feel free to mix in different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even mozzarella for a different taste. Just remember, melty is key!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Is Perfectly Tender?
To get the most tender chicken, there are a couple of key steps you can take. Browning the chicken first adds flavor, but it’s not necessary. If you skip this step, just make sure to season it well!
- Heat oil in a skillet if browning; cook chicken for about 5 minutes until golden on both sides.
- In the crockpot, layer your rice and add liquid ingredients first. This keeps the rice from burning and ensures even cooking.
- Cook on low for the best results, keeping the chicken tender and juicy. If you’re short on time, high heat works too!
Finally, when you shred the chicken after cooking, let it soak up all that cheesy goodness. This method keeps it moist and flavorful in every bite.
How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and then cooks for 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the crockpot. Just a little time to get everything ready, and then it does all the work for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Chicken (Optional):
If you want to add an extra flavor punch, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and brown them on both sides for about 5 minutes. This step is optional but makes the chicken even tastier!
2. Mix the Base in the Crockpot:
In your crockpot, add the long-grain rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir until it’s nicely combined.
3. Add the Chicken:
Place the browned chicken breasts right on top of the rice mixture in the crockpot. Don’t worry; they’ll get nice and cozy with all those flavors!
4. Cook Away:
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Let it cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken will be perfectly cooked and tender by the end of this time.
5. Add the Broccoli:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, toss in the broccoli florets. Gently stir to mix them in with the chicken and rice, letting them steam and become tender.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooking time is done, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Mix it well with the rice and broccoli for a great combination!
7. Mix in the Cheese:
Now it’s time for the best part! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and gooey. Taste your dish, and if you want, adjust the seasonings to your liking!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cheesy chicken broccoli rice warm, topped with extra cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Instead of cooking on low for 4-5 hours, aim for 6-8 hours to ensure the brown rice is tender. You may also need to increase the liquid slightly, so consider adding an additional 1/4 cup of chicken broth.
What if I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?
No problem! You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with an equal amount of homemade cream sauce or a different canned soup like cream of mushroom. If you want to keep it light, mix Greek yogurt with seasonings for a creamy alternative!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and microwave or heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain a creamy texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots. Just remember to add them around the same time as the broccoli, about 30 minutes before serving, so they remain tender but not mushy.
