If you're on the hunt for a comforting and hassle-free meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Easy Crockpot Chicken and Rice Casserole! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Imagine coming home to the tantalizing aroma of tender chicken and savory rice, all simmered to perfection in your trusty crockpot. This recipe not only delivers on flavor but also offers the convenience of a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by cutting chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are trimmed of any excess fat.
- Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Place cubed chicken breast evenly across the bottom of the crockpot, creating a uniform layer.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth and well-blended.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly.
- Sprinkle frozen mixed vegetables over the chicken and soup mixture, distributing them uniformly.
- Cover the crockpot and set to low heat. Cook for 4 hours, allowing chicken to become tender and flavors to meld together.
- About 30 minutes before serving, gently stir in the pre-cooked rice, mixing carefully to incorporate without breaking the chicken pieces.
- Check chicken's internal temperature to ensure it has reached 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop the chicken and measure out the ingredients the night before. Store them in the fridge so you can simply toss everything into the crockpot in the morning.
- Add Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite seasonings or adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the soup mixture.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap out the frozen mixed vegetables for your favorites—broccoli, peas, or bell peppers can add a delightful twist!
- Rice Options: Use leftover rice or even quinoa for a healthier alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.
- Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker casserole, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or sliced green onions right before serving adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Leftover Magic: This casserole makes for fantastic leftovers! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and simply reheat when you're ready to enjoy again.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 70mg
