Nothing beats the convenience of a meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day—unless it’s one that’s also melted cheese-infused and utterly comforting! My Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and sweet corn all wrapped up in a creamy sauce, creating a one-pot wonder that welcomes you home after a long day. It’s culinary magic, especially for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet hassle-free. With minimal prep, this dish allows you to savor that classic comfort without the guilt of fast food. Wondering how to make your kitchen smell divine while indulging in a simple, satisfying meal? Keep scrolling, and let’s dive into this cheesy goodness together! Why is Cheesy Chicken and Rice a Must-Try? Convenience at its Finest: This Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice allows you to set it and forget it. Just toss in the ingredients, and let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you tackle your day. Irresistible Creaminess: The combination of creamy chicken soup and melted cheese creates a rich, indulgent texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to swap the chicken for thighs for extra moisture, or add frozen mixed vegetables for a pop of color and nutrients. Perfect for Family Gatherings: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to for potlucks or family dinners. Easy Leftovers: Not only can you enjoy this dish fresh, but it also stores beautifully for up to three days. Perfect for a busy week ahead! For another comforting dish, check out my Cheesy Hamburger Rice. It’s a great way to satisfy those cravings! Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice For the Chicken • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – This is your main protein; using thighs enhances flavor and moisture. • 1 large onion, chopped – Adds aromatic sweetness; swap with shallots for a milder note. For the Creamy Sauce • 1 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup – Serves as a creamy base; consider a homemade version for a lighter meal. For the Rice • 1 8 ounce box Zatarain’s Yellow Rice Mix – Provides base texture and flavor; plain rice can be used; just adjust seasonings. For the Cheesy Goodness • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Delivers rich, cheesy flavor; swap for Monterey Jack or Colby for a twist. For Added Sweetness and Texture • 1 15 ounce can whole kernel corn, drained – Incorporates sweetness; frozen corn can be a great substitute. This delightful group of ingredients comes together to create the comforting essence of Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice. Enjoy the ease and satisfaction this dish brings to your table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Onions Begin by placing 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Top the chicken with the chopped large onion, allowing its sweet aroma to meld with the meat. Next, pour in the 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Secure the lid and set your slow cooker to low for 7 hours or high for 3 hours. Step 2: Cook the Rice Approximately 30 minutes before your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice is done, cook the 8-ounce box of Zatarain’s Yellow Rice Mix according to the package instructions. Bring water to a simmer, add the rice, and cover it until tender. This timing ensures the rice is freshly cooked and fluffy, ready to absorb all the cheesy goodness from the slow cooker. Step 3: Shred the Chicken When your slow cooker has finished cooking, carefully remove the chicken using tongs. Place it on a cutting board and shred it with two forks, creating bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it well with the creamy sauce to ensure every morsel is coated with flavor. Step 4: Mix in Cheese and Corn Now, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the drained 15-ounce can of whole kernel corn into the slow cooker. The mixture should start to come together beautifully, infused with the cheese’s rich flavor and the corn’s sweetness. Replace the lid and let it cook on low for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly. Step 5: Serve Your Comfort Dish Once the cheese has melted into a creamy delight, it’s time to serve your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice. Ladle generous portions onto plates, savoring the combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious cheesy sauce. This dish is perfect for cozy evenings, and you can pair it with your favorite biscuits to soak up the creamy goodness. How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice fresh and ready for quick meals. Freezer: Portion out the dish into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to label them and use airtight wraps to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore creaminess while reheating. Make-Ahead Tip: Prep all ingredients the night before, then simply assemble and cook the next day for a hassle-free dinner! Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice Mind the Chicken: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to maintain safety. This ensures it’s fully cooked and tender. Avoid Mushy Rice: Cook the rice according to package instructions and time it well; it’ll maintain a perfect fluffy texture when mixed in. Choose the Right Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for better melting and flavor. Try Monterey Jack for a twist! Flavor Boost: Add herbs like garlic powder or paprika to elevate flavors. A pinch of salt can balance the dish with other ingredients. Healthy Choices: Opt for low-sodium cream of chicken soup and corn to cut down on salt while still enjoying your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice. What to Serve with Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice Transform your comforting meal into an unforgettable dining experience with these delightful pairings. Fresh Garden Salad: A bright salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy richness, adding freshness to your plate. Its crunchy texture complements the soft, cheesy dish perfectly. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks are ideal for soaking up that creamy sauce. Their golden, crusty exterior offers a lovely contrast to the tender bites of chicken and rice. Steamed Broccoli: Nutritious and vibrant, steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and an earthy flavor that complements the overall dish, making it a nourishing addition. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet and crumbly, cornbread muffins enhance the homely vibe of your meal. Their slightly gritty texture pairs beautifully with the smooth, cheesy chicken. 7UP Biscuits: Fluffy and light, these soda biscuits are a delightful addition. They bring a hint of sweetness to the table, making each bite even more enjoyable alongside the rich casserole. Chardonnay or Riesling: An off-dry white wine shines here, with its fruity notes enhancing the flavors of the chicken and cheese. Sip and savor the warmth of your meal with every glass! Chocolate Pudding: For dessert, creamy chocolate pudding serves as a rich and indulgent sweet finish. Its smoothness contrasts beautifully with the hearty main course, wrapping up the meal on a delightful note. Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice Variations Feel free to add your own twist and make this comforting dish even more delightful! Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, more flavorful experience. The meat will stay moist and add richness to the dish. Veggie-Packed: Toss in a cup of frozen mixed vegetables for added nutrition and color. Peas, carrots, and corn will create a vibrant medley that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheese varieties! Use pepper jack for a delightful spicy kick or gouda for its smoky richness. Each cheese will give the dish a unique twist and flavor profile. Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs or aromatics like garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or even a bay leaf while the dish is cooking for an aromatic layer of flavor that lifts the entire meal. Creamy Alternatives: Opt for a homemade cream of chicken soup or a dairy-free alternative to make this dish lighter yet just as creamy. It’s a fun way to experiment with recipes! Kicked-Up Heat: Craving some heat? Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the creamy mixture. Adjust the heat level to your preference for an extra zing. Taco Style: Transform this into a taco filling by adding taco seasoning and serving in tortillas. Top with your favorite taco toppings like avocado and salsa for a fresh spin. Serve with Sides: Pair with homemade 7UP biscuits or oatmeal rolls for a satisfying dinner experience. The biscuits will soak up the cheesy goodness beautifully! For more comforting dish ideas, don’t miss my delicious Spicy Maple Chicken that’s perfect for those who love a kick or the creamy flavor of Ponzu Chicken Rice. Enjoy customizing! Make Ahead Options These Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice are perfect for busy home cooks who love to meal prep! You can chop the onion and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep everything fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the rice according to package instructions and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, simply add the prepped ingredients to the slow cooker along with the soup, cook, and follow the finishing instructions. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to savor with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made fresh! Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their convenience, but chicken thighs offer more moisture and flavor. Look for pieces that are plump and pale in color, avoiding any with dark spots or signs of freezer burn. Fresh chicken should have a clean, mild scent. How should I store leftover Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice? After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to avoid excess moisture buildup. For longer storage, consider freezing it! Can I freeze Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice? Absolutely, this dish freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Once it’s cooled, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then with a lid or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain creaminess. What should I do if my rice turns out mushy when mixed in? Oh no, overcooked rice can happen! To prevent this, ensure you follow package instructions carefully and time the cooking of the rice with your slow cooker. It should be tender yet fluffy when added. If it does turn mushy, you can try to salvage it by gently stirring in a bit of fresh, cooked rice to absorb some of the moisture. Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions? Certainly! You can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensuring your rice mix is also gluten-free. For dairy-free options, consider using a non-dairy cheese alternative and replace the cream of chicken soup with a homemade creamy soup base that fits your dietary needs. How long can I keep this dish in the freezer? You can keep your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to label your containers with the date so you can enjoy it at its best! When the craving strikes, it can be a lifesaver for busy days! Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice for Cozy Evenings Experience the convenience of Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice, a melted cheese-infused, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 7 hours hrsAdditional Cooking Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 7 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts Using thighs enhances flavor and moisture.1 large onion, chopped Adds aromatic sweetness; swap with shallots for a milder note.For the Creamy Sauce1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces) Consider a homemade version for a lighter meal.For the Rice1 box Zatarain's Yellow Rice Mix (8 ounces) Plain rice can be used; just adjust seasonings.For the Cheesy Goodness1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Swap for Monterey Jack or Colby for a twist.For Added Sweetness and Texture1 can whole kernel corn (15 ounces), drained Frozen corn can be a great substitute. Equipment Slow Cooker Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by placing 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Top the chicken with the chopped large onion, allowing its sweet aroma to meld with the meat. Next, pour in the 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Secure the lid and set your slow cooker to low for 7 hours or high for 3 hours. Approximately 30 minutes before your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice is done, cook the 8-ounce box of Zatarain's Yellow Rice Mix according to the package instructions. Bring water to a simmer, add the rice, and cover it until tender. When your slow cooker has finished cooking, carefully remove the chicken using tongs. Place it on a cutting board and shred it with two forks, creating bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it well with the creamy sauce. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the drained 15-ounce can of whole kernel corn into the slow cooker. Replace the lid and let it cook on low for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly. Once the cheese has melted into a creamy delight, ladle generous portions onto plates, savoring the combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious cheesy sauce. This dish is perfect for cozy evenings. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 350IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Portion out the dish into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
