Slow Cooker Chicken And Rice

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Highlighted under: Heartfelt Kitchen

I love coming home to a warm, hearty meal after a long day, and this Slow Cooker Chicken And Rice does not disappoint. The aroma filling the house makes it hard to resist! With tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a blend of spices, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. It takes just a little prep time, and then my slow cooker does all the work. The best part? It’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup and more time to relax with family or friends.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:21:36.772Z

One of my favorite things to make in the slow cooker is this chicken and rice dish. I remember the first time I tried it; I was amazed at how simple it was to create such deep flavors with minimal effort. The key is to use good-quality chicken broth which enhances the overall taste of the dish significantly. I also like to throw in a few vegetables for added nutrition and texture.

Cooking it low and slow allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while the rice absorbs all the flavorful juices. If you're looking for a way to make meal prep easier, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Plus, leftovers heat up beautifully for lunch the next day!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Tender, flavorful chicken that falls off the bone
One-pot convenience makes cleanup a breeze
Rich, savory broth that infuses every bite

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of this Slow Cooker Chicken And Rice dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. The chicken breasts are not only the protein source but also provide moisture and rich flavor that infuses the entire dish. Skinless, boneless cuts ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender, avoiding the risk of tough or dry meat that can occur with bone-in pieces.

Long-grain white rice is preferred here because it cooks evenly, absorbs flavors beautifully, and maintains a fluffy texture. As it simmers with the broth and tomatoes, it becomes infused with the savory notes, making every bite delightful. Choosing high-quality chicken broth can elevate the flavor further, while the diced tomatoes add acidity and moisture—two essential elements in achieving harmonious flavors.

Techniques for Perfect Cooking

When prepping the chicken, be generous with the seasoning. Since the cooking process is lengthy, well-seasoned chicken will significantly enhance the overall flavor of the dish. I recommend marinating the seasoned chicken for at least 30 minutes if you have the time; this will deepen the spices' impact on the meat for a more robust taste.

Layering the ingredients in your slow cooker is crucial. Placing the chicken at the bottom ensures that it stays moist while the rice cooks comfortably above it. Uneven layering can lead to rice that is either mushy or undercooked. Keep an eye on the cooking time; while 4 hours on low is typical, factors like the cooker’s heat distribution and chicken thickness can affect the timing, so check for doneness and adjust as needed.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious chicken and rice dish!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cups chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Once you have everything ready, let's start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious meal:

Prep the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Make sure they are evenly coated.

Layer the Ingredients

In the slow cooker, place the seasoned chicken on the bottom. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top.

Add Rice and Liquids

Pour the uncooked rice over the chicken, then add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. If you choose to use frozen peas, add them now.

Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for about 4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Serve

Once done, shred the chicken right in the pot and stir everything together. Serve warm and enjoy!

It's that easy! Enjoy your flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spices overnight. You can also swap out the rice for quinoa for a healthier alternative.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Slow Cooker Chicken And Rice is excellent for meal prep. After cooking, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the dish's moisture. If freezing, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just be aware that the texture of the rice may change slightly upon reheating.

If you know you're making this dish ahead of time, consider mixing the rice and spices together and storing them in a separate container. This way, all you need to do is layer the ingredients in the slow cooker the day you plan to cook. It’s a great way to save time on busy weekdays without sacrificing flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a heartier version, add chopped bell peppers or carrots into the mix. Such vegetables will not only bolster nutrition but also add a splash of color and extra texture. If you're looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken.

If you're a fan of spices, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a kick. Alternatively, you can sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro when serving to elevate the dish even further and add a fresh dimension to each bowl.

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 takes longer to cook.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just make sure to cool it down completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's a complete meal on its own but pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep the rice moist.