Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a true one-pot wonder that will simplify your meal prep. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Perfect for busy weekdays: Prep in the morning and come home to a warm, ready-to-eat meal.

• Minimal mess: Everything cooks in one pot, making clean-up a breeze.

• Kid-friendly: The combination of chicken, rice, and cheese makes it a hit with the whole family.

• Simple ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.

• Leftover-friendly: This recipe makes a big batch, great for meal prep or saving for later.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt, to taste

• ¼ teaspoon pepper, to taste

• 1 cup long-grain brown rice, rinsed

• 1 lb broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks, about 1 to 1½ inches in size.

2. In your crockpot, combine the chicken broth, sour cream, Dijon mustard (if using), thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

3. Add the rinsed rice to the crockpot, followed by the chicken pieces. Stir to mix everything together, then add the broccoli florets on top.

4. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through, and the rice is tender.

5. Stir in half of the grated cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for about 15 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 3–4 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high

• Total Time: 3–4 hours, depending on cooking setting

Variations

• Cheese Variety: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend for different flavor profiles.

• Rice Options: You can use white rice instead of brown, but reduce the cooking time by about 30 minutes.

• Add-ins: Mix in other vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little chicken broth or water to rehydrate the rice and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

It’s best to thaw the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure it cooks evenly and safely.

Why is my rice not cooking properly?

If the rice isn’t fully cooked, you can add an extra ½ cup of hot broth and cook for an additional 30 minutes. Check for tenderness at that point.

Can I substitute white rice for brown rice?

Yes, but be sure to reduce the cooking time by about 30 minutes, as white rice cooks faster than brown rice.

Why did my broccoli turn out mushy?

To prevent mushy broccoli, add it during the last hour of cooking. Fresh broccoli tends to cook faster, so add frozen broccoli earlier.

Can I prep the ingredients the night before?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and measure out all ingredients the night before. Just layer everything in the crockpot and refrigerate overnight.

What can I do if the cheese doesn't melt well?

If the cheese doesn’t melt properly, try stirring it in gradually and let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to melt more evenly.

Is it necessary to use Dijon mustard?

Dijon mustard adds a bit of tang and depth, but it’s optional. Feel free to leave it out if you prefer.

Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?

Yes, you can swap in other vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas, but make sure to add them at the right time to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prep the ingredients the night before, but it’s best to cook it the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste and texture.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a family-friendly dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and convenience. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s the perfect solution for busy nights or a comforting weekend meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a make-ahead dish for meal prep, this recipe will become a household favorite.

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This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is the ultimate one-pot comfort food. Featuring tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, and creamy cheese, this dish is an easy, family-friendly recipe perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor, it’s a hassle-free meal with minimal cleanup. Ideal for meal prep, leftovers, or a quick dinner, this recipe is both nutritious and delicious!

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3–4 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
• Total Time: 3–4 hours (depending on cooking setting)
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Crockpot/Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

2 cups chicken broth

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon salt, to taste

¼ teaspoon pepper, to taste

1 cup long-grain brown rice, rinsed

1 lb broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

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Instructions

• Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks, about 1 to 1½ inches in size.

• In your crockpot, combine the chicken broth, sour cream, Dijon mustard (if using), thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

• Add the rinsed rice to the crockpot, followed by the chicken pieces. Stir to mix everything together, then add the broccoli florets on top.

• Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through, and the rice is tender.

• Stir in half of the grated cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for about 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Cheese Variety: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend for different flavor profiles.

• Rice Options: You can use white rice instead of brown, but reduce the cooking time by about 30 minutes.

• Add-ins: Mix in other vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

• Storage/Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a little chicken broth or water.