Name: Easy One-Pot Crockpot Chicken & Rice!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488948H24M42S
Total time: PT-488948H24M42S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice or jasmine rice; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup water; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon thyme or Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Easy One-Pot Crockpot Chicken & Rice! 🍲🍗✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dinner idea? Our Crockpot Chicken and Rice recipe offers just that — a delicious, hearty meal cooked entirely in your slow cooker. This best one-pot chicken and rice dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory spices, making it an ideal solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home chef, this dinner recipe is easy to prepare and hard to beat in flavor.

2. What You Need: Ingredients for the Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 ½ cups long-grain white rice or jasmine rice
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup water
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

3. How to Make the Best One-Pot Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare your ingredients

Start by dicing the chicken and chopping the onion and garlic. Gather all your spices and measure out your rice and liquids.

Step 2: Season and sear the chicken

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet or directly in the slow cooker if it has a searing feature. Season the chicken with paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown — this adds depth to the flavor.

Step 3: Add ingredients to the slow cooker

Place the seared chicken in the Crockpot, then add the rice, chopped onion, garlic, chicken broth, water, and seasonings. Ensure the rice is submerged in the liquids for even cooking.

Step 4: Cook on low or high

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Avoid opening the lid frequently, as it can affect cooking time.

Step 5: Serve and garnish

Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve directly from the slow cooker for a wholesome, comforting meal.

4. Storage Tips for Your Crockpot Chicken & Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. This dish reheats well and is perfect for meal prep.

5. Serving Suggestions & Variations

Enhance your easy slow cooker chicken and rice by adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking. For a spicy kick, sprinkle some chili flakes or hot sauce. Serve with steamed broccoli or a side salad to round out your meal.

6. Tips to Make Your One-Pot Chicken & Rice Perfect

Use long-grain rice for the best texture and to prevent clumping.

For extra flavor, add a bay leaf or a splash of soy sauce.
Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken tender and rice fluffy.
Adjust liquids based on your rice choice; some rices absorb more water than others.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about this Recipe

Can I substitute chicken with turkey or other meats?

Yes! You can use turkey breast, pork, or even beef stew meat. Adjust cooking times accordingly for optimal tenderness.

Is this crockpot chicken and rice dish healthy?

Absolutely. By using lean chicken, minimal oil, and adding nutritious vegetables, this recipe can be a wholesome meal. Visit our chicken tag for more healthy chicken recipes.

How long does it take to prepare?

The prep time is about 10-15 minutes, and cooking takes 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, making it an easy and quick dinner.

8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

Enhance your cooking experience with high-quality tools. The Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker makes preparing this dish effortless, ensuring your chicken and rice cook evenly. Want to prep your vegetables quickly? The Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master will save you time and effort, giving you perfectly chopped ingredients every time. A good nonstick cookware set not only makes cooking easier but also ensures easy cleanup. Discover these tools and more to elevate your kitchen game!

9. Conclusion

This Crockpot Chicken and Rice recipe is the ultimate comfort food — simple, delicious, and perfect for busy families or anyone craving a hearty meal with minimal effort. Its versatile nature allows you to customize with your favorite ingredients and flavors. Give it a try today and enjoy a flavorful, stress-free dinner that everyone will love! For more quick and tasty recipes, explore our lunch and dinner ideas.