Slow Cooker Chicken And Rice

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, sliced; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Meal Solutions

I absolutely love making Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice on busy weeknights. It’s one of those throw-and-go recipes that fills the house with the most comforting aromas. With tender chicken simmered in a flavorful broth alongside perfectly cooked rice, it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. I enjoy customizing the spices and adding seasonal veggies to keep it fresh and exciting every time. Plus, the ease of cleanup makes it a regular in our dinner rotation!

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:21:36.656Z

When I first tried making Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice, I was blown away by how just a handful of ingredients could create a meal that feels so elaborate. The slow cooking method truly makes a difference; the chicken becomes incredibly tender while the rice absorbs all the delightful flavors from the broth and spices. I learned that browning the chicken beforehand enhances the depth of flavor even more!

One key tip I've discovered is to add some frozen peas right in the last 30 minutes of cooking. It not only adds a pop of color but also gives a lovely sweetness that perfectly balances the dish. This has now become a family favorite, enjoyed by adults and kids alike!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Effortless preparation with just a few main ingredients
Ultimate comfort food that the whole family will adore
Versatile: add your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice plays a vital role in achieving the dish's ultimate flavor and texture. The chicken thighs, with their higher fat content compared to breast meat, remain juicy and tender throughout the cooking process. Seasoning them before searing helps to enhance the overall depth of flavor, adding a deliciously rich foundation to the dish. Don't skip this step, as it contributes to the savory and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.

The rice is another cornerstone of this recipe. Long-grain white rice is preferred here due to its ability to absorb flavors and maintain separate grains, avoiding the clumpiness that can occur with other rice varieties. If you're looking for alternatives, jasmine or basmati rice can work well, but adjustments in cooking time and liquid ratios may be necessary. For a healthier twist, brown rice can also be utilized, though it typically requires a longer cooking time.

Technique Tips for Success

When searing the chicken, aim for a medium heat to achieve that golden-brown crust without overcooking the interior. It's essential to let the chicken sear undisturbed for those 4 minutes on each side. This creates a flavorful brown layer that adds complexity to your broth. To prevent sticking, you can add a little oil to the skillet, especially if your pan isn’t non-stick.

Layering the ingredients in the slow cooker is key to ensuring even cooking. By placing the rice mixture at the bottom and the seared chicken on top, the juices from the chicken slowly drip down, flavoring the rice as it cooks. Remember to resist the urge to stir after adding the chicken—doing so can release excess starch from the rice and create a risotto-like consistency instead of fluffy rice. This careful layering is essential for achieving that perfect texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start cooking:

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, sliced
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to check the seasoning before serving!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice:

Prepare the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet for about 4 minutes on each side until browned.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrot, rice, and dried thyme. Pour in the chicken broth and stir gently.

Add the Chicken

Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Do not stir! Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

Finish the Dish

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the rice. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!

Garnish with fresh herbs if desired!

Pro Tips

Feel free to replace rice with quinoa for a healthier option, and experiment with different spices for added flavor!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish is fantastic for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you anticipate leftovers, consider portioning them into individual servings for easy reheating. To reheat, sprinkle a few tablespoons of water over the rice and chicken before covering with a damp paper towel. Heat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. This method helps maintain the moisture of the dish.

Freezing this Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is also possible, although I recommend doing so before adding the peas. Allow the cooked chicken and rice to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, where it can be stored for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as previously described. If reheating from frozen, be sure to allow extra time to ensure it reaches a safe temperature.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly customizable, which makes it a great base for experimenting. For a burst of color and nutrition, consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. If you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeño can elevate the dish significantly. You can also switch out the thyme for other herbs like rosemary or oregano, depending on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences.

For a creamier texture, you can stir in a half cup of cream or a dollop of sour cream during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This addition not only enhances the mouthfeel but also brings a delightful richness to the dish. Additionally, turning this recipe into a casserole is possible by transferring the cooked mixture into a baking dish and topping it with breadcrumbs or cheese before broiling until golden. It transforms into a completely different experience while retaining its comforting roots.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice requires a longer cooking time. Cook on high for 3-4 hours.

→ Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough and you may need to slightly increase the cooking time.

→ Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Yes, you can prep all the ingredients and store them in the fridge. Just add them to the slow cooker in the morning!

→ What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice?

This dish is quite filling on its own but you can pair it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.