When it comes to quick and easy meals, few combinations are as satisfying as chicken and rice. The classic comfort food duo can be elevated in countless ways with a little creativity and some helpful cooking tools. Enter the humble crock pot, which allows us to cook up a storm of flavors while we’re busy with our daily routines.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering chicken and rice crock pot recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From creamy and garlicky to spicy and Cajun-inspired, there’s something on this list for every taste bud. So why wait? Let’s dive in and discover the flavorful possibilities of chicken and rice in a crock pot!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
A rich and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce with tender chicken and flavorful rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with chicken and garlic.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve chicken over cooked rice, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice
Savor the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy and satisfying dish that combines succulent chicken, savory rice, and a kick of cayenne pepper. This classic Cajun recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the chicken mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic comfort dish, this Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lemon mixture.
4. Sprinkle parsley evenly over the top of the chicken.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
6. Serve hot over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and convenience. A simple yet satisfying meal for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken in butter until cooked through.
3. In a separate pot, combine cooked rice, broccoli, milk, and thyme. Heat over medium heat, stirring until creamy.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half the rice mixture, followed by chicken, then remaining rice mixture.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowl
A classic Japanese-inspired dish that combines the flavors of sweet teriyaki sauce with savory chicken and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in teriyaki sauce and stir to coat the chicken and onion mixture. Bring to a simmer and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve the chicken and sauce over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Mexican Chicken and Rice with Black Beans
A flavorful and filling dish that combines the bold spices of Mexico with the comfort of chicken, rice, and black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice and black beans. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken and Rice
Coconut Curry Chicken and Rice Recipe Summary:
This flavorful dish combines the richness of coconut milk with the warmth of Indian spices, served over a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add chicken, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken, about 10 minutes.
4. Serve chicken and sauce over cooked rice. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Rice with Corn
This classic comfort food recipe combines juicy chicken, flavorful BBQ sauce, creamy corn, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the corn kernels and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
7. Add the BBQ sauce to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the BBQ corn mixture on top.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice with Olives
Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice with Olives Recipe
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup that combines the flavors of chicken, wild rice, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice (such as brown, white, and black)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the rice is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice
A sweet and tangy twist on classic chicken and rice, this recipe combines the flavors of honey and mustard for a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and mustard.
4. Place the cooked chicken in a baking dish and brush with the honey-mustard mixture.
5. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
6. Serve the chicken on top of the rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple Chicken and Rice with Bell Peppers
A sweet and savory twist on a classic dish, this recipe combines juicy chicken, flavorful bell peppers, and creamy pineapple with a side of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (8 oz) pineapple rings in juice, drained
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers, garlic, and pineapple to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
4. Serve hot over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice with Mushrooms
A classic comfort food dish that combines the flavors of garlic butter, juicy chicken, and savory mushrooms with fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add remaining 1 tbsp of butter, garlic, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked rice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Transfer skillet contents to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken and Rice Casserole
A spicy twist on classic comfort food, this casserole combines the flavors of buffalo chicken with creamy rice and a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in buffalo wing sauce.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions (if using).
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Arrange half the rice mixture in the bottom of the dish.
5. Add chicken mixture on top of the rice.
6. Top with remaining rice mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice
A flavorful and satisfying one-pot dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the comfort of chicken and rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, diced tomatoes, chopped basil, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the tomato mixture.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice and tomatoes.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines chicken, rice, and spices for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, rice, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken-rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Pesto Chicken and Rice with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This flavorful dish combines the richness of pesto chicken with the natural sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a hearty serving of creamy rice. A perfect blend of Italian-inspired flavors for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic and pesto sauce; stir to combine.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
5. In a separate bowl, mix cooked rice with chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
6. Serve chicken on top of rice mixture, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Chicken and pesto sauce: 15-20 minutes
– Rice: 18-22 minutes
– Total: 35-42 minutes
Chicken and Rice with Spinach and Feta
This comforting dish combines the simplicity of chicken and rice with the added brightness of wilted spinach and tangy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Add the cooked rice, crumbled feta cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme to the skillet; stir until combined.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the rice mixture.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken and Rice
Elevate your meal with this flavorful combination of smoky paprika chicken, savory rice, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until coated evenly with the marinade.
4. Spread the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the chicken is cooking, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Serve the chicken on top of the cooked rice and spoon some bell pepper mixture alongside.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Chicken and Rice with Peas and Carrots
A comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is heated through.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice mixture.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Discover the perfect solution for busy weeknights with these 20 flavorful chicken and rice crock pot recipes. From classic comfort food to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Try creamy garlic parmesan chicken and rice, spicy Cajun chicken and rice, or lemon herb chicken and rice. Or go bold with teriyaki chicken and rice bowl, Mexican chicken and rice with black beans, or coconut curry chicken and rice. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep. Get ready to cook up a storm in your crock pot!
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