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Creamy Easy Crockpot Chicken and Rice Recipe for Perfect Family Dinner

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A comforting and creamy crockpot chicken and rice dish that is easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This recipe uses simple ingredients and slow cooking to deliver tender chicken and fluffy rice with a velvety cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Soften 4 ounces of cream cheese in a small mixing bowl by stirring until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 3 cloves of garlic.
  3. Place 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Optionally sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon paprika.
  4. Spread the chopped onion and minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
  5. Add 1 cup of long-grain white rice directly over the chicken mixture.
  6. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, ensuring the rice is submerged but not swimming.
  7. Sprinkle 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots on top.
  8. Dot 2 tablespoons of butter over the surface.
  9. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until chicken is tender and rice is cooked through. Avoid opening the lid frequently.
  10. Remove chicken breasts and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot.
  11. Stir in softened cream cheese and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  12. Stir well, cover again, and let sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken before serving.

Notes

If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen. If too watery, cook uncovered on low for an additional 15-20 minutes. Soften cream cheese before adding to avoid clumps. Avoid opening the lid frequently during cooking to retain steam. For brown rice, increase broth to 4 cups and cook for 6-7 hours on low. Frozen chicken breasts can be used but increase cooking time and check doneness carefully.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken and rice, creamy chicken recipe, easy crockpot dinner, family dinner recipe, slow cooker chicken, comfort food, one-pot meal

Find it online: https://avabake.com/creamy-easy-crockpot-chicken-and-rice-recipe-for-perfect-family-dinner/