Okay, friends, let’s talk comfort food. Do you ever crave something warm, cheesy and incredibly easy after a long day?Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice.I need a hug in the bowl. This is my absolute go-to when I’m feeling really bad. Is this a leveled-up version of rice noodles? Is it better to make your own food? What’s better: cheesy, chicken-y goodness with tender broccoli and perfectly cooked rice – all made in house. What can I cook in my c Is this a one-pot wonder?
What is crockpot chicken broccoli rice?
Simply put, Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice.What are some of the best comfort food casseroles made in a slow cooker? What are some of the best recipes for chicken, broccoli, cauliflower, and a whole lotta cheese? Is a creamy sauce enough to make it irresistible? Think of it as a slow-cooked chicken and broccoli casserole, but with rice instead of noodles. What is a dump-and-go meal? ) to spend in the kitchen. My kids call it “magic dinner” because it appears with almost no effort on my part!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
How do I start with this recipe?
- Flavor:The combination of cheesy sauce, savory chicken, and slightly sweet broccoli is a match made in heaven. Every bite is packed with comforting flavor, and it’s seriously addicting. I’ve had friends who claim they don’t like broccoli rave about this dish!
- Simplicity:Is it any easier to get a job than this? How do you put all the ingredients in a crockpot and forget it? No pre-cooking required! Is this one a lifesaver when you’re juggling multiple things at the same time?
- Cost-What are the ingredients for chicken thighs? Breasts (they’re also more flavorful, in my opinion! What is a great way to stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing taste?
- Versatility:Can you customize this recipe to your liking? What are some ways to substitute cauliflower for broccoli? I’ve even thrown in a can of drained corn before, and it was delicious!
What I love most about this is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. Even picky eaters gobble it up! What are some good recipes for meal prep? I often make a big batch on Sunday and then enjoy it for lunch throughout the week. This one’s definitely earned its spot as a family favorite, right up there with my Creamy Tomato. My mom’s famous meatloaf. Soup and my Mom’
How do I make a crockpot cheesy chicken broth?
Quick Overview
Making Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice. IHow do you cook in a crockpot? Chicken, rice, broccoli, cheese, and a creamy sauce. Set it to cook on low for a few hours, and boom! Dinner is served. What is the beauty of slow cooking? What makes a dish more than the sum of its parts? What is comfort food?
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 5 – 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (I prefer a thigh for extra flavor and fat).
- 1 cup long grain rice, uncooked (basmati or jasmine works well)
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 4 cups)
- Can condensed cream of chicken soup be used for cooking?
- 75 ounces) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or use two cans of chicken for a milder mild).
- 1 cup chicken broth. 1 tsp.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack – yum!)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that extra cheesy pull)
- 1/4 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder. 1 tablespoon black pepper powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder; 1
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Optional Add-in
- Diced onion
- Chopped carrots are
- Canned corn (drained
- What is a pinch of red pepper flakes for?
What are the steps to
Step 1: Layer Ingredients
Spray your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. Place chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the crockpot. I usually trim off any excess fat before a workout. What is the best way to sprinkle uncooked rice over chicken?
Step 2: Add Veggies
What are the best ways to serve broccoli florets on rice? If you’re using other veggies like onions or carrots, add them now too. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. I find that layering helps everything cook more evenly.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, mushroom soup and chicken broth. Set aside. Milk, garlic powder, onion powder and salt. Pour this mixture evenly over the broccoli and rice.
Step 4: Add Cheese
What is the best way to serve soup with shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese? What makes this dish so good? I always make sure to leave a little extra to sprinkle on top right before serving.
Step 5: Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and the rice should tender. I always check my chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to make sure it reaches 165°F. I use crockpot for this purpose.
Step 6: Shred Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot. How do you mix shredded chicken with rice and broccoli? What should I do if I’m going to make a sauce that thickens up nicely?
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot, garnished with a little extra shredded cheese, if desired. I sometimes add sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. Enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice. is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round it out, here are some serving suggestions:
For a Simple Weeknight Dinner:
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Steamed green beans or asparagus
For a Potluck or Gathering:
- Cornbread
- Coleslaw
- Fruit salad
For a Comfort Food Feast:
- Mashed potatoes
- Stuffing
- Cranberry sauce
My family loves it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious cheesy sauce. I’ve even served it alongside roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal. The possibilities are endless!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice even better. Here are my top tips:
Chicken Tips:
- Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor and more tender texture. They also tend to stay juicier in the crockpot than chicken breasts.
- Don’t overcook the chicken! If you cook it for too long, it can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the right temperature.
- If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the crockpot.
Rice Tips:
- Use long-grain rice for the best results. Shorter-grain rice can become mushy in the crockpot.
- Don’t rinse the rice before adding it to the crockpot. The starch in the rice helps to thicken the sauce.
- If the rice is still a little crunchy after the cooking time is up, add a little more chicken broth and cook for another 30 minutes.
Broccoli Tips:
- Cut the broccoli florets into small, even pieces so they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli! It should be tender-crisp, not mushy. If you prefer softer broccoli, add it to the crockpot earlier in the cooking process.
- You can also use frozen broccoli florets, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess water before adding them to the crockpot.
Cheese Tips:
- Use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Shred the cheese yourself instead of buying pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly.
- Add a little cream cheese to the sauce for extra creaminess.
Sauce Tips:
- If you want a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- For a richer flavor, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is great for meal prepping, and it stores well in the refrigerator and freezer.
Room Temperature:
- I don’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little milk or chicken broth if it seems dry.
Freezer Instructions:
- Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
- Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Glaze Timing Advice:
- This recipe doesn’t have a glaze, but if you were to add a topping like breadcrumbs or extra cheese, I’d recommend adding it right before serving for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a comforting meal that brings the whole family together. It’s the kind of dish that makes busy weeknights feel a little less hectic and a lot more delicious. I truly believe that everyone needs a simple, reliable recipe like this in their arsenal, and I hope you love it as much as we do. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other easy crockpot meals, like my Slow Cooker Pot Roast and my Crockpot Mac and Cheese. Happy cooking, friends! Let me know in the comments below how your Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice turns out. I’d love to hear your variations and tips! And don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it!

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts
- 1 cup Uncooked rice
- 10 oz Frozen broccoli florets
- 1 cup Chicken broth
- 0.5 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Place chicken breasts, rice, broccoli, and chicken broth in a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and combined.