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Easy Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

creamy crockpot chicken and rice casserole - featured image

This creamy crockpot chicken and rice casserole is a comforting, set-it-and-forget-it meal with tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a velvety sauce. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 medium)
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Prepare the crockpot: Lightly spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
  3. Combine the liquid base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, low-sodium chicken broth, and heavy cream until smooth.
  4. Layer ingredients in the crockpot: Add the uncooked long-grain rice to the bottom. Pour the sautéed onions and garlic over the rice. Place the chicken breasts on top. Season with dried thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
  5. Pour the sauce: Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken and rice. Do not stir.
  6. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F and rice is tender.
  7. Shred the chicken: Remove chicken to a cutting board, shred with two forks, and return to the crockpot.
  8. Add the vegetables: Gently stir in the frozen peas and carrots. Let sit with lid on for 10-15 minutes.
  9. Finish and serve: Give a final gentle stir. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Use long-grain white rice only; do not use instant or short-grain rice. Sautéing the onion and garlic is recommended for deeper flavor. Do not stir during cooking. Check doneness at the lower end of the time range as slow cookers vary.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken and rice, creamy chicken casserole, slow cooker chicken, easy weeknight dinner, comfort food