There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice simmering away, promising a warm, hearty dinner at the end of a busy day. This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice in one pot of pure comfort.
I first stumbled upon this recipe when looking for a hands-off meal for my family that still felt indulgent. Since then, it has become a staple in our household, especially on chilly nights when we’re craving something cozy and filling. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your new favorite!
Why You'll Love This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe
Get ready to discover your next go-to dinner. This recipe delivers big on flavor, convenience, and versatility.
First, it's a true dump-and-go meal. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you focus on your day. No complicated steps or babysitting the stove required.
This dish is a budget-friendly superstar. It uses simple, affordable ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. Feed a hungry family of four for less than you’d spend on takeout.
Plus, it’s a hit with even the pickiest eaters. Creamy cheese, tender chicken, and fluffy rice make it a comforting classic, while the broccoli sneaks in some extra nutrition without anyone noticing.
Finally, it’s versatile. You can easily swap in different vegetables, cheeses, or proteins based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice lies in its simple, well-balanced ingredients. Each one contributes to the rich, satisfying flavors of this dish.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a lean and tender option, but you can also use chicken thighs for an even juicier result.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe as it holds up beautifully in the slow cooker. Avoid instant rice, which can become mushy.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add color, texture, and nutrition. If using frozen broccoli, add it towards the end to prevent overcooking.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is the star of the show, delivering bold, creamy flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby.
Chicken Broth: This keeps the rice moist and flavorful. Low-sodium broth is a good choice if you’re watching your salt intake.
If you have a slow cooker liner or nonstick spray, it can make cleanup a breeze, but it’s not essential. A basic 6-quart crockpot is perfect for this recipe.
How To Make This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Creating this delicious meal couldn’t be easier. Follow these simple steps, and dinner will practically make itself!
Start by lightly greasing your crockpot or using a slow cooker liner. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick and painless.
Place the chicken breasts into the crockpot, and season them generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add in the rice, followed by the chicken broth. Stir gently to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender. Avoid opening the lid too often, as it can release heat and slow down the cooking process.
About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir in the broccoli. The steam from the crockpot will cook the broccoli to perfection.
Finally, stir in the cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness.
This recipe takes about 5 hours total, including prep and cook time, making it an excellent choice for busy weekdays.
Storage Options
Leftovers store beautifully, making this a great make-ahead meal. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
In the refrigerator, this dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally, or warm on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to restore the creamy consistency.
For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Swap the chicken for cooked sausage or cubed ham for a different protein.
- Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, but increase the cooking time slightly.
- Add other vegetables like diced carrots, peas, or cauliflower for extra color and nutrition.
- Replace cheddar with your favorite cheese blend, such as gouda or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and replace half the broth with water.
Don’t be afraid to get creative. This recipe is forgiving and adaptable, so it’s perfect for experimenting with what you have on hand.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try, and let me know your favorite variations!
PrintCrockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe
This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice recipe is a creamy, flavorful one-pot meal made with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and fresh broccoli. Perfect for busy nights!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken in the crockpot, then stir in the rice, broccoli, and milk. Cook on low for an additional 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and the broccoli is tender.
- Mix in the shredded cheese until melted and combined.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For added flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese.
- Frozen broccoli can be used but add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
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