Crockpot Chicken And Rice

Name: Crockpot Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 2 cups of uncooked rice; 4 chicken breasts; 1 can of cream of chicken soup; 1 cup of chicken broth; 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots; 1 onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon paprika; Fresh parsley for garnish

Looking for an easy, hearty meal that practically cooks itself? Crockpot chicken and rice is the answer! This dish combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s not only a time-saver but also a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Give it a try—you’ll love the delightful aroma and rich taste!

Ingredients

– 2 cups of uncooked rice
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1 can of cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately: 350 calories, 30g protein, 45g carbohydrates, 8g fat. This is a great option for a balanced meal!

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Gather all ingredients and prep your workspace.
Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Add diced onion and minced garlic over the chicken.
Pour the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth on top.
Spread the uncooked rice evenly over the mixture.
Add frozen peas and carrots on top of the rice.
Cover and set the crockpot to low for 4-6 hours.
Once cooked, fluff the rice and serve garnished with parsley.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute brown rice for white rice for added nutrition, or use different vegetables such as bell peppers or corn. For a dairy-free option, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free alternative.

Serving and Pairings

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or dinner rolls.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until hot, or rewarm in a saucepan over medium heat. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
Not rinsing the rice may lead to a sticky texture.
Using too much liquid can make the dish soupy.
Forgetting to season can result in bland flavors.
Not stirring halfway through can lead to uneven cooking.

Helpful Tips

Use bone-in chicken for more flavor.
Incorporate fresh herbs for added freshness.
Adjust the cooking time based on your crockpot model.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require a longer cooking time. Ensure that it reaches a safe internal temperature.

How do I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken before cooking for an extra kick.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, but cooking times may vary. Brown rice will take longer to cook than white rice.

What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Consider adding soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Conclusion

Crockpot chicken and rice is a flavorful, hassle-free dish that brings comfort to your table. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s perfect for busy families or anyone looking for an easy weeknight meal. Enjoy the deliciousness and the convenience that a slow cooker provides!