Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli & Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1 cup brown rice (uncooked (do NOT use white rice!)); 1 cup white onion (chopped); ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon granulated garlic; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup (15 ounce size); 1 tablespoon dijon mustard; 2 cups chicken stock; 1 pound boneless chicken breast (cut into ½ inch cubes); 12 ounces fresh broccoli (cut into small pieces); ½ cup parmesan cheese (grated); 1 cup white cheddar (shredded)

The make-ahead slow cooker cheesy chicken broccoli rice recipe is easy, delicious, and sure to please the whole family. With only 15 minutes of prep time, this crockpot dinner is perfect for a lazy day.

A complete meal by itself, although you overachievers can add some rolls and a salad.

slow cooker filled with rice, cheesy, chicken in creamy saucce

Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli & Rice

A super simple dinner that the whole family will enjoy: a complete meal in your crockpot with minimal prep time.

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 5

Serving Size servings

Equipment

Slow cooker 6 quart or large

Ingredients

1 cup brown rice uncooked (do NOT use white rice!)
1 cup white onion chopped
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon granulated garlic
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 can condensed cream of chicken soup 15 ounce size
1 tablespoon dijon mustard
2 cups chicken stock
1 pound boneless chicken breast cut into ½ inch cubes
12 ounces fresh broccoli cut into small pieces
½ cup parmesan cheese grated
1 cup white cheddar shredded

Instructions

Add liquids and seasonings to a slow cooker. In a 6 quart or large slow cooker, add the brown rice, white onion, salt, pepper, garlic, Italian seasoning, and condensed soup. Next, add the dijon mustard and chicken stock and stir to combine.
Add chicken and cook. Add the cut chicken, mix well, and cook on high for 2 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Add broccoli. When the chicken is cooked, add the cut broccoli and cook for another 1-2 hours until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid and the broccoli is tender.
Add cheese and serve. Finally, stir in the parmesan cheese and white cheddar cheese until thoroughly mixed and melted. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use only brown rice for this recipe.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Use any cheese to your liking in this recipe

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Tips

You need to use brown rice for it to cook properly and not overcook. If you’ve never tried it before, it’s hard to tell the difference in a dish like this. (Honestly! My kids are very picky and don’t notice.)
If you want to prep this ahead of time, you can! Just dice the onion and chicken and measure out all the ingredients. Put everything in a Ziploc bag or container in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
This recipe is very versatile. If your family doesn’t like broccoli, feel free to leave it out or substitute another vegetable
For the most tender chicken, make sure to cut it into small, even pieces.
Ensure to follow the cooking time instructions for the best end result.
Serve this delicious comfort food with sourdough crusty rolls or a green salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Ingredient Suggestions

Broccoli Florets: Use lots of fresh broccoli cut into small florets for a flavorful broccoli taste.
Cheese Options: While white cheddar is great, you can also try colby jack cheese for a different flavor.

Substitutions

Sour Cream: For a creamier texture, you can stir in some sour cream during the last hour of cooking.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you prefer, you can use a can of cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
Wild Rice: If you enjoy a nutty flavor, substitute the brown rice with wild rice.

Quick Version

Instant Pot: For a faster version of this recipe, you can use an Instant Pot. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for uncooked rice.
Rotisserie Chicken: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save on prep time and achieve delicious chicken quickly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve it with sourdough crusty rolls, and a green salad or fruit salad.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Nope! You need to use brown rice for it to cook properly

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, sharp cheddar or cheddar jack are both good. I’d keep the parmesan in there though.

What can I do if my chicken is frozen?

Defrost it first. If your chicken goes into the slow cooker frozen, it won’t warm up quickly enough and can stay at an unsafe temperature for too long. It’s a bummer, I know.

Can I use chicken broth instead of chicken stock?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for chicken stock in this recipe. Both will provide a rich flavor to the dish.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs can be used and will result in moist chicken. Just make sure to cut them into ½ inch cubes as well.

Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or if you need more tips on making this recipe just right!

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. You can freeze small portions and reheat them for a quick meal, too.

This crockpot chicken broccoli rice casserole is one of my absolute favorites for easy family dinners. The creamy cheese and tender chicken make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters. Try it out and let it become one of your favorite things to cook on busy days!

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice