If you’re craving a comforting, all-in-one meal that bubbles with gooey cheese, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, you simply must try this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe. It’s one of those effortless dishes that feels like a warm hug on a busy day and delivers a perfect balance of creamy, savory flavors with the wholesome goodness of fresh ingredients. Plus, it’s made in the Crockpot, which means you can set it and forget it, then come home to an irresistible homemade dinner that smells as amazing as it tastes.

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple but uses each ingredient to build a multilayered flavor and texture profile. From the mild tenderness of chicken breast to the sharp bite of cheddar cheese, every component plays an essential role in crafting this heartwarming dish.

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The protein star of the dish that stays juicy and shred-able after slow cooking.
1 cup long-grain white rice: This grain soaks up the broth and cheese, giving the dish a creamy, comforting base.
2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and savory richness to every bite, perfect for infusing the rice and chicken.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a fragrant undertone that makes the flavors well-rounded and irresistible.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile without overpowering the other ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color to the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out and balance all the flavors beautifully.
2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets: This green vegetable adds a refreshing crunch and pops of color that brighten up the dish.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for that creamy, melted, cheesy goodness that makes this recipe unforgettable.
1/2 cup heavy cream or milk: Adds luscious creaminess, making the rice irresistible and tender.

How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot and Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts right at the bottom of your Crockpot. Season them generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This seasoning base is key to infusing bold flavor from the get-go and ensuring every bite of chicken bursts with savory goodness.

Step 2: Add Rice and Broth

Next, sprinkle the rice evenly over the chicken breasts. This layering allows the rice to slowly cook in the flavorful chicken juices. Pour the chicken broth carefully on top to fully submerge the rice, which is crucial for even, tender cooking. Trust this step for perfectly fluffy rice every time.

Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender

Cover your Crockpot and cook the mixture on low heat for about 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. During this time, the chicken will cook to tender perfection, and the rice will soak up all the delicious broth, creating a base rich in flavor and texture.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the breasts and shred them with two forks. This quick step transforms whole pieces into bite-sized, tender shreds that blend effortlessly back into the dish, spreading their juicy flavor through every grain of rice.

Step 5: Add Broccoli, Cheese, and Cream

Return the shredded chicken to the Crockpot, and add the broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, and heavy cream or milk. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This mixture creates that signature cheesy, creamy texture and adds vibrant color, making your dish both delicious and visually pleasing.

Step 6: Final Cook and Melt

Cover and cook everything on high for another 20 to 30 minutes. This final step allows the broccoli to become tender while the cheese melts perfectly, binding the ingredients into a luscious, comforting meal you’ll want to dive right into.

How to Serve Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for a fresh, colorful finish. A little cracked black pepper added just before serving also enhances the warm flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Despite being a hearty, all-in-one meal, this recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or a simple crusty bread to soak up any extra cheesy sauce. Roasted vegetables also bring a contrasting texture and complement the creamy chicken and rice perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun dinner party twist, serve the Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe in hollowed-out bell peppers or sweet potatoes. It adds a splash of color and transforms a cozy meal into an eye-catching main course your guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully after resting, making your second meal just as tasty as the first.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers in portions to enjoy later! Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat your Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore that creamy texture. Stir occasionally to warm it evenly without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works well but requires a longer cooking time and more liquid, so adjust the broth and cooking time accordingly or pre-cook the rice before adding it to the slow cooker.

Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative. Just be sure to add it during the final cooking step to avoid overcooking and losing its vibrant texture.

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another cheese?

Definitely! Cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a sharp gouda can work beautifully to give a slightly different taste and texture while keeping the dish creamy and delicious.

What if I don’t have heavy cream? Can I use milk instead?

You can! Milk will keep the dish creamy but a bit lighter. For a thicker result, whole milk or adding a small amount of cream cheese can help mimic the richness of heavy cream.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, doubling the ingredients is easy, but make sure your Crockpot is large enough to handle the increased volume to ensure proper cooking throughout.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe is one of those gems that makes weeknight dinners effortless, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week ahead, it’s a recipe that feels like a warm embrace every time. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a favorite in your kitchen, just like it did in mine!

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe

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4.2 from 35 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a comforting one-pot meal combining tender chicken breasts, fluffy rice, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese. Cooked slowly in a crockpot, it offers ease and delicious flavors perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Main Ingredients

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets

Dairy

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream or milk

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Instructions

Prepare the Crockpot: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot and season them evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to infuse the meat with flavor as it cooks.
Add Rice and Broth: Sprinkle the rice evenly over the seasoned chicken, then pour the chicken broth on top, making sure the rice is fully submerged to ensure even cooking.
Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and the rice has become tender and fluffy.
Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the crockpot, shred the meat finely using two forks, then return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot.
Add Broccoli and Cheese: Stir in the broccoli florets, heavy cream (or milk), and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined for a creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
Final Cooking: Cover again and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the cheese has melted completely, creating a smooth and rich sauce.
Serve: Stir everything thoroughly to blend all ingredients, then serve warm. You can garnish with extra cheese if desired for added richness.

Notes

Use fresh or frozen broccoli depending on what you have available; frozen works well but fresh gives a crisper texture.
Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference, especially salt and pepper.
For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with milk or a low-fat dairy alternative.
This recipe is great for prepping ahead; leftovers reheat well in the microwave or stovetop.
Ensure the rice is submerged in broth to cook evenly and avoid dryness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American