Crock Pot Chicken, Broccoli, And Rice: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Crock Pot Chicken, Broccoli, And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked brown rice; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth (plus up to 1 cup extra); 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 cups broccoli florets; 0.5 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Introduction to Crock Pot Chicken, Broccoli, And Rice

This Crock Pot Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice recipe is the perfect solution for a busy day when you still want a homemade meal. It’s a wholesome dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and hearty brown rice, all cooked slowly to create a delightful one-pot meal that’s comforting and satisfying. With minimal prep work and a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious dinner waiting for you after a long day.

A Personal Story Behind My Crock Pot Chicken, Broccoli, And Rice Journey

Growing up, my family loved gathering around the table for dinner, and one of our favorite meals was chicken and rice. As I got older and started my own family, I wanted to recreate that feeling of togetherness. This Crock Pot Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice recipe has become a staple in our home, reminding me of those cherished moments while also making new memories with my loved ones. The slow cooker allows me to prepare it in the morning and enjoy the wonderful aromas filling the house by dinnertime.

What Makes This Crock Pot Chicken, Broccoli, And Rice Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and heartiness. Utilizing brown rice not only adds a nutty flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it cooks in the savory chicken broth, while the broccoli adds a pop of color and a fresh crunch. The addition of sour cream and cheddar cheese melds everything together into a creamy, delicious mix that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to adapt by adding your favorite spices or substituting vegetables based on what you have on hand.

The Full Crock Pot Chicken, Broccoli, And Rice Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked brown rice
1 small yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (plus up to 1 cup extra)
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 cups broccoli florets
½ cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker: In your slow cooker, combine the uncooked brown rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Pour 2 ½ cups of chicken broth over the mixture. This step is crucial as it forms the base of your dish.

Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with onion powder and salt. Rub Dijon mustard on both sides of the chicken. Placing the seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture allows the flavors to meld beautifully during cooking.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 2 hours or on LOW for 5-6 hours. Remember that the longer you cook it on LOW, the more tender your chicken will be.

Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, uncover the slow cooker and transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Allow it to cool slightly, then chop it into small pieces. Shredding the chicken allows it to mix in well with the rice and broccoli.
Add Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets in the microwave, drain, and then add them to the slow cooker. Stir to combine, ensuring the broccoli is evenly distributed.
Mix in Sour Cream: Add the sour cream and chopped chicken back into the slow cooker, stirring to combine. Check the rice for doneness; if it’s not fully cooked, add up to 1 cup more chicken broth as needed. The sour cream adds a creamy texture that enhances the dish.

Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture. Cheese lovers will appreciate this melty addition!
Final Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for another 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rice is soft. This final step ensures everything is heated through and perfectly combined.
Serve: Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Adding fresh parsley not only looks appealing but also adds a touch of freshness to the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Crock Pot Chicken, Broccoli, And Rice

This dish is versatile and can be served on its own or with a side salad for a complete meal. You can also customize it by adding other vegetables like peas or carrots for a different flavor profile. For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer, you can substitute the broccoli with another vegetable that your family enjoys. It’s great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for a few days or frozen for later.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Chicken, Broccoli, And Rice

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted, as white rice cooks faster than brown rice.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, if you ensure that the chicken broth and any other ingredients are gluten-free, this dish can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities.