Slow Cooker Chicken And Rice

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups long-grain white rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon black pepper; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Weeknight Wonders

I absolutely love how easy it is to prepare Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, I can set it and forget it. The aroma that fills my kitchen as it cooks is enough to make my mouth water. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the tender chicken and fluffy rice create a comforting meal that is hard to resist.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:10:36.277Z

When I first tried making Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice, I was amazed at how effortlessly delicious it turned out. I followed a simple method where I seasoned the chicken well and layered it over uncooked rice and broth. This technique allows the rice to absorb all the flavors, creating a wonderfully savory dish!

One tip I found particularly helpful is to let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This not only helps the flavors meld but also allows the rice to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve. It's become a go-to recipe in our household.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Effortlessly flavorful with one-pot convenience
Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
Perfectly cooked rice infused with delicious broth

Ingredient Insights

The heart of Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice lies in the quality of your chicken broth. A full-flavored broth enhances every bite and prevents the dish from tasting bland. If you're short on time, store-bought broth works well; however, if you can, homemade broth really elevates this dish. Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt content better, making it easier to get the seasoning just right.

The choice of rice is equally essential. Long-grain white rice provides the best texture, as it stays fluffy and separate during cooking. Avoid using quick-cooking rice varieties, as they may become mushy and change the intended outcome. If you prefer a whole grain option, brown rice can be used, but increase the cooking time to about 6-7 hours on low for perfectly tender results.

Cooking Techniques

When it comes to seasoning the chicken, don’t be shy with the salt, as it enhances the overall flavor of the dish. I recommend seasoning generously, but also taste the final product to adjust if needed. Additionally, the spices not only add flavor but also a beautiful color to the chicken, making it more visually appealing on your plate. The slow cooking process allows the spices to penetrate, creating a rich, satisfying taste.

Avoid the temptation to lift the lid during cooking; doing so allows steam to escape, which can affect cooking time and rice texture. After four hours, the chicken should be tender enough to shred with a fork, while the rice should be perfectly cooked and have absorbed all the flavorful broth. If you find the rice too wet, simply let it sit with the lid off for a few minutes to allow some moisture to evaporate.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups long-grain white rice
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured out before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your dish:

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Place them at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Add Ingredients

Layer the chopped onions and minced garlic on top of the chicken. Pour in the chicken broth followed by the uncooked rice. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed.

Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. Avoid opening the lid during cooking to ensure steam stays trapped.

Serve

After 4 hours, check that the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.

Your Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider tossing in your favorite vegetables during the last hour of cooking. Peas or carrots make a great addition!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice dish is fantastic for meal prep. You can assemble everything the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just pop it in the slow cooker in the morning, and you'll have a delicious meal ready by the time you return home. It’s a great way to simplify busy weeknights while still enjoying a homemade dinner.

Leftover chicken and rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist since rice can dry out while stored.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, this dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. A side of roasted broccoli or asparagus can add a lovely crunch and balance the meal. For a bit of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving can elevate the flavors.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider serving with a side of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You can also mix in some sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots right before serving for added texture and nutrition. This dish is versatile, and these little enhancements can make it a delightful variation on a beloved classic.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time to approximately 6-7 hours on low.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Just ensure they are properly stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great too and will be even more tender.

→ What can I serve with chicken and rice?

A simple side salad or steamed vegetables would pair nicely!