Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, creamy cheddar cheese, and perfectly cooked rice—all in one pot. This slow-cooker meal is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and a hands-free cooking process, you’ll have a delicious, wholesome dinner ready for the whole family to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy one-pot meal – No need for multiple pots and pans; everything cooks together in the crockpot.
- Creamy and cheesy – The combination of sour cream and sharp cheddar cheese makes this dish irresistibly creamy.
- Nutritious – Packed with lean protein from chicken and fiber-rich broccoli and brown rice.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences.
- Perfect for meal prep – Make ahead and store for quick meals throughout the week.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon each, salt & pepper
- 1 cup long-grain brown rice (or risotto rice, rinsed)
- 1 lb broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken – Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces (about 1 to 1½ inches).
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker – In your crockpot, mix the chicken broth, sour cream, Dijon mustard (if using), dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add Rice and Chicken – Stir in the rinsed long-grain brown rice, then add the chicken pieces. Make sure they are evenly distributed.
- Add Broccoli – Place the broccoli florets on top of the rice and chicken mixture.
- Cook – Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked, the rice is tender, and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese – Stir in 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese until melted. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for about 15 minutes.
- Serve – Once the cheese is fully melted, serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley or freshly ground black pepper if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Variations
- Use a different cheese – Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese for a different flavor.
- Add more veggies – Stir in peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Spicy version – Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Low-carb option – Swap the rice for riced cauliflower.
- Creamier texture – Mix in a little heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or warm on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed.
FAQs
How can I prevent the rice from getting mushy?
Use long-grain brown rice and avoid overcooking. Stirring too often can also break down the grains.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but it will increase the cooking time. Thawing first ensures even cooking.
What if my dish is too thick?
Stir in a little extra chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes! Cook everything in a large pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the cheese is melted.
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, but white rice cooks faster. Adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you check that your Dijon mustard and chicken broth are gluten-free.
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Try turkey, shrimp, or even diced ham for a twist.
What can I serve with this?
This dish pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative.
Conclusion
Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy nights when you need a hearty, easy, and delicious meal. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and balanced nutrition, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try out the variations, make extra for leftovers, and enjoy a stress-free dinner that everyone will love.
Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting one-pot meal made with tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice. This easy slow-cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you need a hearty, stress-free dinner. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish is a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon each, salt & pepper
- 1 cup long-grain brown rice (or risotto rice, rinsed)
- 1 lb broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken – Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces (about 1 to 1½ inches).
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker – In the crockpot, mix chicken broth, sour cream, Dijon mustard (if using), dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add Rice and Chicken – Stir in rinsed long-grain brown rice, then add the chicken. Ensure even distribution.
- Add Broccoli – Layer the broccoli florets on top of the rice and chicken mixture.
- Cook – Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked, the rice is tender, and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese – Stir in 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese until melted. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for about 15 minutes.
- Serve – Once the cheese is fully melted, serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley or freshly ground black pepper if desired.
Notes
- Cheese Variations – Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese.
- Extra Veggies – Add peas, carrots, or bell peppers for more nutrition.
- Spicy Version – Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Low-Carb Option – Use riced cauliflower instead of rice.
- Creamier Texture – Mix in heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
