Crock Pot Chicken and Rice is one of those easy, comforting meals that just feels like a hug on a plate. Tender chicken, creamy rice, and a mix of simple seasonings all cook together slowly, making the kitchen smell so welcoming and homey. It’s a one-pot dish that lets you set it and forget it, which is perfect for busy days.
I love making this recipe because it’s so hands-off, but still delivers big on flavor and texture. I usually add a little extra garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a bright touch that makes every bite taste fresh and satisfying. Plus, the chicken comes out so tender that it practically falls apart—perfect for anyone who loves simple, no-fuss meals.
When I serve Crock Pot Chicken and Rice, I like to add a simple side of steamed veggies or a crisp green salad to round everything out. It’s a meal that feels cozy and filling but doesn’t weigh you down. This is definitely a recipe I return to again and again because it’s warm, easy, and just the kind of meal you want waiting for you at the end of a long day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Both breasts and thighs work well here. Thighs stay juicier but breasts are leaner. If you want, use rotisserie chicken to save time—add it near the end so it doesn’t dry out.
Rice: Long grain white rice is best for this recipe because it cooks evenly and stays fluffy. Avoid brown rice or instant rice here as they need different cooking times.
Chicken broth: This builds all the flavor in the rice. If you don’t have broth, use water plus some bouillon cubes or stock powders. Low sodium broth lets you control salt better.
Heavy cream or half and half: This gives the dish a creamy finish. For a lighter twist, you can use evaporated milk or coconut milk, though the flavor will change slightly.
Lemon juice: A splash right at the end brightens the dish beautifully. Fresh lemon is best, but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.
How Do You Prevent the Rice From Getting Mushy in a Crock Pot?
Rice can easily overcook in a slow cooker, so here’s how to keep it just right:
- Use long grain white rice, which holds texture better than short grain or brown rice.
- Keep the liquid-to-rice ratio about 4:1 (broth plus water) as stated in the recipe.
- Don’t open the lid while it cooks—that lets steam escape and can mess with cooking times.
- Place the rice at the bottom of the crock pot with the liquid first, then add the chicken on top. This way, the rice cooks evenly absorbing all the juices.
- If you like firmer rice, check for doneness a little early, around 4 hours on low.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker (Crock Pot) – The star of this dish, it gently cooks the chicken and rice all in one pot, making cleanup easy.
- Skillet (optional) – Use it if you want to brown the chicken first for extra flavor; it’s quick and easy to do on the stovetop.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To accurately measure liquids and seasonings, ensuring the perfect balance.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – For chopping the onion and garlic quickly and safely.
- Serving spoon – To gently stir the rice mixture and serve easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use shredded cooked chicken or cooked rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time; add it in during the last hour to keep it tender.
- Throw in chopped bell peppers, peas, or carrots along with the rice for added color and veggies.
- Add some grated cheese on top before serving, like cheddar or Parmesan, for extra richness.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley, or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Crock Pot Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning chicken)
- ¼ cup heavy cream or half and half
- Juice of half a lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then cooks for 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in your crock pot. It’s perfect for setting up in the morning and coming back to a delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. (Optional) Brown the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper, then brown each side for 2-3 minutes. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
2. Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
Spray the crock pot with non-stick spray or lightly grease it. Spread the uncooked rice evenly on the bottom. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the rice.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour the chicken broth and water into the crock pot. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Place the chicken on top of the rice and broth mixture.
4. Cook the Dish:
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and the rice tender. Try to avoid lifting the lid while it cooks to keep all the steam inside.
5. Finish and Serve:
Remove the chicken and gently stir the rice. Stir in the heavy cream (or half and half) and lemon juice to make the rice creamy and fresh-tasting. Slice or shred the chicken and return it to the crock pot. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices if you like. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before adding it to the crock pot. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking and may affect the rice texture.
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid, so it’s not ideal for this recipe. If you’d like to use brown rice, cook it separately or adjust the time and liquid accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the rice seems dry.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Crock Pot?
Absolutely! Add chopped carrots, peas, or bell peppers along with the rice for extra flavor and nutrition. Just keep in mind some vegetables may soften more than others during slow cooking.
