This easy crockpot dish brings together tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and bright broccoli over fluffy rice. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Seriously, who can resist that creamy, cheesy sauce? I love it when leftovers taste even better the next day. Perfect for busy nights when cooking feels like a marathon!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it simple and lean. If you’re looking for another option, chicken thighs work well too. They add a bit more flavor and moisture!
Rice: White rice is the standard here, but feel free to substitute with brown rice. Just remember that brown rice usually takes longer to cook, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch and color. If you don’t have fresh, frozen broccoli florets are a great alternative; just add them in a bit earlier.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices. If you want to mix it up, try pepper jack for some heat or a sharp cheese like Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. If you prefer, Greek yogurt can work too for a healthier twist!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken right is key for this dish. Since it’s in the crockpot, it should become tender and shredded easily. Here are some tips:
- Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture. This way, it soaks up flavors from the broth and seasonings.
- Be careful not to overcook! Check it at the end of the cooking time. If it shreds easily, you’re good to go.
- Once shredded, mix it back with the rice and veggies for an even distribution of flavors.
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 cups uncooked white rice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups chicken broth
For the Vegetables:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
For Garnishing:
- Extra shredded cheese or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, then you’ll let the crockpot do its magic for 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. In no time, you’ll have a delicious, cheesy meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray or lightly oiling it. This helps with easy cleanup later!
2. Mix the Base:
Add the uncooked rice, chopped onion, and minced garlic into the crockpot. These ingredients will create a tasty base for your meal.
3. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a brief stir to combine. This ensures the rice will cook evenly with the flavors from the chicken broth.
4. Prepare the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and your choice of dried thyme or Italian seasoning for a lovely flavor boost.
5. Cook the Dish:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
6. Add the Broccoli:
About 20 minutes before you’re ready to eat, add the fresh broccoli florets on top. Cover again to let them steam and soften while the rest cooks.
7. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up and the broccoli is tender, carefully remove the chicken breasts. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
8. Combine Everything:
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Then stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses along with the sour cream until everything becomes creamy and delicious.
9. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you’d like, stir in some butter or olive oil for added richness.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the cheesy chicken broccoli rice hot, garnished with a little extra cheese or fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your comforting, cheesy, and easy one-pot meal!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just keep in mind that it will take longer to cook—around 6-7 hours on low or about 3-4 hours on high. You may also need to add an extra half cup of chicken broth to ensure it cooks properly.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a substitute for sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great option! It adds a creamy texture and is a healthier alternative. You can also use cream cheese for a richer flavor, just make sure to soften it first before mixing it in.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will last for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the mixture seems too thick.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add in other vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn for additional flavor and nutrition. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may change slightly depending on the type and size of the vegetables you add.
