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Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a creamy, comforting, one-pot slow cooker meal made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, fresh broccoli, and melty cheddar cheese. It’s an easy family favorite and one of the best slow cooker chicken and rice recipes for busy nights or meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Main Ingredients
  • 1½ lbs chicken breasts 2–3 breasts
  • 1½ cups long-grain white rice uncooked
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 3 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp butter optional, for richness
  • Optional Add-Ins
  • 4 oz cream cheese for extra creaminess
  • 1 cup frozen peas or carrots
  • ½ tsp paprika or garlic powder for flavor

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
  2. Lay chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Add Rice and Vegetables:
  4. Pour uncooked rice over the chicken. Add chopped onion, garlic, and broccoli florets on top.
  5. Add Liquids:
  6. Pour chicken broth into the crockpot. Add butter if using. Lightly stir to submerge the rice (do not overmix).
  7. Cook:
  8. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2½–3 hours. The rice should be tender and the liquid mostly absorbed.
  9. Shred Chicken:
  10. Remove the chicken breasts, shred with two forks, and return the chicken to the crockpot. Mix well.
  11. Add Cheese:
  12. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined. Add cream cheese now if using.
  13. Adjust Consistency:
  14. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk. If too loose, let it sit uncovered for 10 minutes.
  15. Serve:
  16. Spoon into bowls and enjoy warm.

Notes

 
Use long-grain rice only. Short-grain rice becomes mushy in slow cookers.
Add broccoli in the last 30 minutes if you prefer it more firm.
Freshly shredded cheddar melts smoother than pre-shredded.
For extra creaminess, add a few tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To freeze: cool completely, portion, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Works with chicken thighs too — they stay even more tender.