Name: Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 25 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp salt; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 tsp paprika; 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth

This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and melted cheddar. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner, it’s a hearty, family-friendly meal that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crockpot cheesy chicken and rice casserole is a deliciously easy, one-pot meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table with minimal effort. The tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and gooey cheddar cheese create a creamy, satisfying dish that’s ideal for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry family. The slow cooker handles all the work, infusing every bite with rich taste while you go about your day. It’s versatile—serve it as is or with a side salad—and the leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or a cozy dinner on a crisp Sunday.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use Long-Grain Rice: Choose white or brown rice for the best texture; avoid sticky varieties.

Layer Ingredients: Place rice and liquids at the bottom to ensure even cooking.
Check Liquid: Add extra broth if rice absorbs too much during cooking.
Stir Cheese Last: Add cheese near the end to prevent it from becoming rubbery.

Low and Slow: Cook on low to keep chicken tender and rice fluffy.
Skim Fat: Remove excess fat from the broth for a cleaner taste.
Season Well: Taste and adjust seasoning before adding cheese for balanced flavor.

Rest Before Serving: Let it sit for 10 minutes to set the casserole.

Yield: 8 servings

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Creamy crockpot cheesy chicken and rice casserole, perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

¼ tsp black pepper

½ tsp salt
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked

1 medium onion, diced
1 tsp paprika
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

Prep the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then place it in the slow cooker.
Layer the Base: Spread diced onion and minced garlic over the rice for a flavorful foundation.
Add Chicken: Place chicken breasts on top of the rice and onion mixture.

Mix the Liquids: In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour Over Chicken: Pour the broth mixture over the chicken, ensuring it seeps down to the rice.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until chicken is tender and rice is cooked.

Shred Chicken: Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the slow cooker, mixing with the rice.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top, cover, and cook on low for 10-15 minutes until melted.
Rest the Casserole: Let it sit uncovered for 10 minutes to set and thicken slightly.

Serve and Enjoy: Spoon into bowls and savor this cheesy, comforting meal with a side salad if desired!

Notes

Use long-grain rice to avoid mushiness; check liquid levels during cooking.
Adjust seasoning after adding cheese, as it can vary in saltiness.

Avoid overcooking to prevent dry chicken; add broth if needed.
Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness.
This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free or dairy-free diets with appropriate swaps.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 320Total Fat 13gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 102mgSodium 562mgCarbohydrates 12gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 36g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Chicken Breasts (1.5 lbs): Boneless, skinless breasts provide lean protein; thighs work too.

Long-Grain Rice (1 cup): Uncooked white or brown rice; rinse to remove excess starch.
Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Sharp cheddar adds creamy, melty goodness.
Chicken Broth (2.5 cups): Low-sodium broth keeps it moist; homemade enhances flavor.

Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Adds creaminess; use low-fat for a lighter option.
Onion (1 medium): Diced, adds savory depth; yellow or white works best.
Garlic (2 cloves): Fresh minced garlic brings aromatic warmth.

Paprika (1 tsp): Smoked or sweet paprika adds a subtle smoky note.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances flavors; adjust based on broth and soup saltiness.
Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a mild kick; freshly ground is best.

Variations and Substitutions

Chicken Swap: Use turkey or rotisserie chicken for convenience; adjust cooking time.
Rice Options: Substitute with wild rice or quinoa for a different texture.
Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar with mozzarella or a Mexican blend.

Soup Alternatives: Use cream of mushroom or celery soup for variety.
Veggie Add-Ins: Include peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Spice It Up: Add cayenne or chili powder for a spicy twist.

Gluten-Free: Ensure rice, soup, and broth are gluten-free certified.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese and cream soup alternative.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat with a splash of broth.

Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months; thaw in fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven, adding broth to restore moisture.