Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe

Creamy Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe for Families

Comfort meets convenience in this delectable crockpot cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole that promises to become your new weeknight favorite.

Slow cooking transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, satisfying meal everyone will adore.

Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and melted cheese, each spoonful delivers incredible flavor without hours of kitchen work.

Busy families can rejoice in this hands-off approach to dinner preparation.

Nutritious and hearty, the dish combines protein, vegetables, and wholesome grains in one pot.

Minimal effort yields maximum deliciousness, making meal planning a breeze.

Prepare to savor every comforting bite of this irresistible one-pot wonder.

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice – Comfort Food All Day

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice – Comfort Food All Day
  • Simplify Weeknight Dinners: Toss ingredients into the crockpot and walk away, creating a hearty meal with minimal hands-on preparation for busy families.
  • Nutrition Packed One-Pot Wonder: Combines lean protein from chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and satisfying rice into a balanced meal that keeps everyone full and happy.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap cheeses, use different protein options, or add extra vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours while maintaining its delicious core.
  • Kid-Friendly Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy texture and mild flavors make this dish a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy without fuss.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Ingredient Breakdown

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender and lean meat that provides the primary protein for this hearty dish.
Seasonings:
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: Classic spices that enhance the overall flavor of the chicken and create a well-seasoned base.
Vegetable:
  • Broccoli Florets: Fresh green vegetable that adds nutrition, color, and a slight crunch to the creamy dish.
Liquid and Sauce Components:
  • Cream of Chicken Soup, Chicken Broth: Creamy base that creates a rich and smooth texture for the casserole.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Cooked Rice, Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Comforting rice provides a hearty foundation, while melted cheese adds a creamy and indulgent finish to the recipe.

Steps For Crockpot Cheesy Broccoli Rice

Steps For Crockpot Cheesy Broccoli Rice

Step 1: Prep the Protein

Slice chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes.

Sprinkle generously with:
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Distribute chicken evenly across the bottom of the crockpot.

Step 2: Add Veggie and Liquid Base

Gently place fresh broccoli florets over the chicken.

Pour in:
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Chicken broth

Mix ingredients carefully to ensure even distribution.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Goodness

Cover crockpot and set to low temperature.

Allow everything to simmer and blend flavors for 4-6 hours.

The chicken should become super tender and easily fall apart.

Step 4: Create Creamy Comfort

During the final 30 minutes of cooking, introduce:
  • Cooked rice
  • Shredded cheddar cheese

Stir thoroughly, letting the cheese melt and create a luxurious, creamy texture.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Scoop the delightful mixture into bowls.

The dish will be steaming hot, packed with cheesy, hearty goodness.

Perfect for a cozy meal that everyone will love.

Pro Tips For Extra Creamy Broccoli Rice

  • Use chicken breasts with some fat content or add an extra splash of broth to keep meat juicy and tender during slow cooking.
  • Swap fresh broccoli with frozen for convenience or add spinach, cauliflower for extra nutrients and variety.
  • Add cheese gradually and stir carefully to prevent clumping and ensure smooth, creamy texture throughout the dish.
  • Use pre-cooked rice to avoid mushy texture and reduce overall cooking time in the crockpot.
  • Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or paprika to elevate the flavor profile and add depth to the recipe.

New Takes For Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace cream of chicken soup with homemade gluten-free cream sauce using cornstarch, milk, and chicken broth. Use gluten-free rice and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Swap chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broccoli and add nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa. Reduce cream soup and increase protein content with extra cheese or Greek yogurt.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives like nutritional yeast or cashew cheese. Replace cream of chicken soup with coconut milk-based cream sauce for richness.

Serving Broccoli Rice For Every Meal

  • Meal Companion Magic: Pair this creamy chicken rice casserole with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors.
  • Protein Power-Up: Sprinkle some toasted sliced almonds or sunflower seeds on top to add extra crunch and nutritional boost to the dish.
  • Veggie Variety Hack: Swap or add different vegetables like diced carrots, peas, or spinach to customize the recipe and increase nutritional value.
  • Leftover Love: Transform remaining cheesy chicken rice into delicious stuffed bell peppers or quick lunch wraps for an easy next-day meal.

Broccoli Rice Storage Tips For Busy Days

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Cool completely before sealing and refrigerate up to 3-4 days.
  • Transfer cooled mixture to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze flat for maximum space efficiency. Keeps well for 2-3 months.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Add splash of chicken broth to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until heated thoroughly.
  • Reheat in skillet over medium-low heat. Add extra broth or water to restore moisture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

  • Is it possible to make this recipe without a crockpot?

Absolutely! You can prepare this in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Cook chicken first, then add other ingredients and simmer for 20-25 minutes until chicken is tender.

  • Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?

Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup work great as alternatives. Each will slightly change the flavor profile but maintain a creamy texture.

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use low-fat cheese, replace cream of chicken soup with homemade sauce, and add more vegetables like cauliflower or spinach to boost nutritional value.

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Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe


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4.8 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Comforting crockpot cheesy chicken broccoli rice delivers a wholesome one-pot meal packed with creamy goodness and nutritious ingredients. Families will savor each hearty spoonful of this simple, satisfying dinner that brings warmth and deliciousness to the table.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 cups cooked white rice

Dairy and Sauce:

  • 1.5 cups (1 1/2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Arrange chicken pieces evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker, generously coating with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for robust flavor infusion.
  2. Gently distribute fresh broccoli florets over the seasoned chicken, ensuring even coverage throughout the cooking vessel.
  3. Pour cream of chicken soup and chicken broth directly over the chicken and broccoli, carefully mixing ingredients to create a uniform liquid base.
  4. Secure the crockpot lid and set to low temperature, allowing the mixture to simmer and develop flavors for 4-6 hours until chicken reaches complete tenderness.
  5. During the final 30 minutes of cooking, introduce pre-cooked rice into the crockpot, stirring to integrate with the existing mixture.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top, allowing it to melt completely and create a creamy, luxurious texture throughout the dish.
  7. Once cheese has melted and ingredients are thoroughly combined, remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to settle.
  8. Serve immediately while hot, ensuring each portion contains a balanced blend of chicken, broccoli, rice, and melted cheese.

Notes

  • Cook rice separately ahead of time to prevent soggy texture and maintain perfect grain consistency.
  • Substitute dairy cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives for lactose-intolerant or vegan diners.
  • Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to reduce cooking time and add extra flavor depth.
  • Incorporate additional vegetables like diced carrots or peas to increase nutritional value and colorful presentation.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 360 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

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