Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole
Here’s a full, comforting recipe for a Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole – tender chicken, creamy rice, and classic vegetables all cooked low and slow for a satisfying, cozy one-pot meal. Minimal prep, family-friendly, and perfect for busy days!
Total time
Total Time: 4–8 hours
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours on High or 7–8 hours on Low
Servings: 6
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
1 ½ lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked (see tips below)
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
1 ½ tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Veggies (optional but recommended):
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup frozen carrots or mixed vegetables
1 small onion, finely diced (optional)
Topping (optional but delicious):
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prep the Slow Cooker:
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray or use a liner for easy cleanup.
2. Assemble the Ingredients:
In the slow cooker, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add Chicken & Rice:
Stir in the uncooked rice and optional onion and frozen veggies.
Nestle the whole chicken breasts or thighs into the mixture.
Spoon a bit of sauce over the chicken to coat.
4. Cook:
Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours, until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
Avoid opening the lid too often—this slows cooking time.
5. Shred & Finish:
Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken directly in the slow cooker and stir everything together.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese if using, until melted.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving (the rice will absorb more flavor).
6. Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley or extra cheese if desired.
Serve with a side salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted green beans.
Variations & Tips
Rice Type Matters: Use regular long-grain white rice for best results. Brown rice takes longer and may stay firm unless you increase the liquid and time.
Make it lighter: Use low-fat soups and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Add crunch: Top with buttery Ritz crackers or French fried onions right before serving.
Cheesy version: Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella during the last 30 minutes.
Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: In microwave or on stovetop with a splash of broth or milk.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420
Protein: 32g
Fat: 16g
Carbs: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g