Slow Cooker Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice is an easy set and forget one pot crockpot perfect for busy families. The chicken is tender, the rice is so fluffy and it pairs so well with crunchy broccoli for an easy no-fuss dinner. for a cozy meal.
Comfort foods are a favorite because they are easy to prepare and taste great. I hope you try some of my favorite dump-and-go recipes like Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu, Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes, Chicken and Green Bean Casserole, and Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Pure comfort: Crockpot Chicken with Rice and Broccoli is pure comfort food that is easy to assemble.
- No precooking: The ingredients go right into the slow cooker with delicious results.
- Make ahead: Prep ahead and set up in the morning for a great dinner.
Ingredient List
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together rice, onion, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the rice mixture over the chicken. Be sure the chicken is covered with the rice mixture. Add broccoli to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Once cooked, use a fork to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mix it with the creamy lemon rice.
- Taste for seasoning; if needed, adjust seasoning.
Make the recipe your own
Here are some ways to change the flavor of this dish.
- Protein: Any boneless chicken works; boneless chicken thighs or chicken breasts are great for this slow cooker chicken recipe.
- Flavor: Sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet before placing them in the slow cooker. I use this slow cooker because it has a searing option and so many other features.
Vegetables: Add more vegetables such as diced carrots, bell peppers, or peas to the rice mixture for added nutrition and texture.
Eileen's Tips for Success
- Rice: Rinse the rice before adding it to the slow cooker to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming too sticky
- Stir after the chicken is shredded to combine ingredients. This ensures the rice are evenly cooked.
- I use fresh broccoli in this recipe. Frozen broccoli can be used with great results.
FAQs for the best Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice
Yes. Raw chicken can be cooked in the slow cooker. Cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. If you have the extra time, browning the chicken adds extra flavor.
I recommend rinsing the rice before adding it to the slow cooker. Rinsing removes starch and prevents the rice from clumping and sticking while cooking.
Make-ahead, storage, and freezer tips
Storage - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer - Make the broccoli chicken rice recipe in the slow cooker. Then freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight freezer container or freezer-safe bag. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven, stovetop, or microwave until heated through.
What to serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice
More Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes
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Eileen xo
Click the number of servings in the recipe card; adjust the measurements up or down for the exact number of servings you need.
📖 Recipe
Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenders in the of the slow cooker.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed), 1 small yellow onion (peeled and chopped_, 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced, 1 cup unsalted chicken broth, ½ cup heavy whipping cream, ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 large lemon zested, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- Pour the rice mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is covered with the rice mixture. Add 2 cups fresh broccoli florets to the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should be 165°F/74°C.
- Once cooked, use a fork to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the creamy lemon rice. Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed.
- Sprinkle 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded over the top of the the chicken and rice in the slow cooker. Place the cover back on and cook until the cheese has melted about 10 to15 minutes.
- Serve the chicken and rice hot, garnished with fresh parsley, chopped if desired.
Flavor: Sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet before placing them in the slow cooker.
Vegetables: Add extra vegetables such as diced carrots, bell peppers, or peas to the rice mixture for added nutrition and texture. Tips:
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Nutrition
Nutritional values are estimates only. Please consult a professional for strict dietary needs.
Carol
I have made this a few times and it is so good. Easy and delicious. Perfect for the weeknight dinner
Eileen Murphy Kelly
Hi Carol, So glad you enjoy the slow cooker chicken. It is one I make often and my family loves it.
DW
Do you recommend Fresh Broccoli or frozen broccoli to use in this recipe? It does not mention it anywhere.
Eileen Murphy Kelly
Hi DW, I have updated the recipe to include that frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. I generally use fresh broccoli but I have used frozen broccoli with delicious results.