This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice dish is a winner! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, thanks to the chicken, broccoli, and rice cooking together in one pot.
Who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself? I just throw everything in the Crockpot and let it do the magic. It’s comforting, delicious, and perfect for busy days! 🙌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Rice: I prefer long grain or jasmine for their fluffy texture. If you need a substitution, quinoa or brown rice can work, but cooking times may vary. Just check the package instructions for adjustments.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great, but thighs can add extra moisture and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use pre-cooked shredded chicken; just add it later in the cooking process.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant color and crunch. If you opt for frozen, it’s perfectly fine! Just avoid overcooking to keep some texture.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a bold flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese can be good alternatives. Just ensure they melt well.
Milk: Whole milk makes it creamy, but you can use any milk or non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant.
How Do I Get the Cheese Extra Creamy in the Dish?
To achieve that perfect creamy cheese blend, it’s important to add the cheese towards the end of cooking. This gives it time to melt without clumping. Here’s how to do it:
- Once the cooking time is nearly done, remove and shred the chicken.
- Add the butter and milk first, mixing them in to create a base.
- Then, stir in the shredded cheese gradually, letting each addition melt before adding more.
- If it feels too thick, add a splash more milk to loosen it up.
By following this method, you’ll have a wonderfully creamy texture that makes every bite delightful! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll then need to allow 4 to 5 hours for cooking on low or 2 to 3 hours on high in the crockpot. Adding the cheese and broccoli near the end will take an extra 30 minutes. Totaling around 4-5.5 hours for your delicious meal to be ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Crockpot:
Using non-stick cooking spray, generously coat the inside of your crockpot. If you prefer, you can also rub a bit of butter inside to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Rice:
Evenly spread the uncooked rice across the bottom of the crockpot. This will create a nice base and absorb all those yummy flavors as it cooks!
3. Add the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts directly on top of the rice. No need to worry about spacing; they will cook down nicely!
4. Season It Up:
Sprinkle the chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme (if you’re using it) over the chicken and rice. This is where all the delicious flavor begins!
5. Pour the Broth:
Carefully pour the chicken broth over everything in the crockpot. Make sure the rice is mostly submerged in liquid so it cooks properly.
6. Slow Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
7. Shred the Chicken:
About 30 minutes before serving, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot.
8. Add Broccoli and Cheeses:
Add the broccoli florets into the mixture. Stir in the butter, milk, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese. Make sure everything is well mixed and creamy!
9. Final Cooking:
Cover again and cook on high for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melting and delightful.
10. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, take a moment to taste. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if desired. Then, scoop out a warm serving of your cheesy chicken broccoli rice. Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!
This recipe makes a comforting and hearty meal with minimal effort, perfect for those busy weeknights. Comfort food made easy! 😊
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Cook it for about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. You may need to add a little more liquid as well, so adjust the chicken broth accordingly.
Can I Prep This Meal Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can layer the rice, chicken, and seasonings in the crockpot insert and store it in the fridge overnight. Just pour the broth over it and start cooking in the morning—it’s a great way to save time!
How Do I Prevent the Cheese from Clumping?
To avoid clumping, add the cheese towards the end of cooking when the dish is nearly finished. Mixing it in with warm ingredients allows it to melt evenly. If the texture is still thick, feel free to add a splash more milk.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of milk to help restore its creaminess. Stir occasionally while reheating to ensure even warming!
