Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a warm and comforting dish. It is perfect for busy days when you want a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is easy to follow and cooks itself in your slow cooker, allowing you to relax while it gets ready.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for many reasons. First, it is simple and quick to put together. You only need a few ingredients. Second, it is a one-pot meal, making cleanup easy. Lastly, this dish is family-friendly, and everyone usually loves it!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of uncooked rice
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme (optional)
Directions:
- Start by placing the uncooked rice at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Put the chicken breasts on top of the rice.
- In a bowl, mix the chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Pour this mixture over the chicken and rice.
- Add the frozen peas and carrots on top.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- When the cooking time is up, check that the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is best served hot. You can serve it as is or add some fresh herbs, like parsley, on top for extra flavor. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool down and then put it in an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before eating.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
- For more flavor, you can add spices like paprika or a bay leaf.
- If you like a creamier texture, add a cup of cream or sour cream during the last half hour of cooking.
- Make sure to check the chicken and rice regularly, depending on your slow cooker, as cooking times can vary.
Variation
You can easily change this recipe by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or corn. You can also use brown rice instead of white rice, but remember it will need a longer cooking time.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to add an extra hour to the cooking time.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free chicken broth.
3. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, turkey, or even pork. Just adjust your cooking time as needed.
