How To Cook Rice In Slow Cooker With Chicken: The Easiest, Most Flavorful Meal You’ll Ever Make!

Preparing a warm and comforting meal doesn’t have to be a time-consuming task. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can effortlessly create a delectable dish of rice and chicken that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to cook rice in a slow cooker with chicken and savor the flavors of this classic combination.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

2. Brown the Chicken:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
• Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides.

3. Assemble the Slow Cooker:

• Place the browned chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.

4. Cook the Rice:

• Rinse the rice under cold water and drain it well.
• Add the rice, chicken broth, thyme, and oregano to the slow cooker.
• Stir to combine.

5. Set the Slow Cooker:

• Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.

6. Check the Rice:

• After the cooking time, check the rice. It should be tender and fluffy.
• If the rice is still a bit hard, continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

• Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork.
• Serve the rice and chicken together, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Rice:

• Choose the Right Rice: Long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, works best for this recipe.

• Rinse the Rice: Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky.

• Use the Correct Ratio of Liquid to Rice: The ratio of liquid to rice is important for achieving the right consistency. For this recipe, use 2 cups of liquid for every 1 cup of rice.

• Don’t Open the Slow Cooker During Cooking: Opening the slow cooker during cooking can release steam and affect the cooking process.

• Let the Rice Rest: After cooking, let the rice rest for 5-10 minutes with the lid on. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and become even more fluffy.

Variations:

• Add Vegetables: For a more colorful and nutritious meal, add some chopped vegetables to the slow cooker along with the chicken and rice. Some good options include carrots, celery, onions, and bell peppers.

• Use Different Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile. Some popular choices include cumin, paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.

• Add a Sauce: If you like, you can add a sauce to the slow cooker along with the chicken and rice. Some good options include a simple tomato sauce, a creamy mushroom sauce, or a flavorful curry sauce.

• Top with Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the rice and chicken before serving.

• Serve with Sides: Serve the rice and chicken with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will take longer to cook. You may need to increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Q: Can I cook the rice and chicken in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can. Simply follow the same steps in a large pot over medium heat, bringing the mixture to a boil, then reducing the heat to low and simmering for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: Can I cook other types of meat in the slow cooker with rice?
A: Yes, you can cook other types of meat, such as beef, pork, or lamb, in the slow cooker with rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How can I make sure the rice doesn‘t stick to the bottom of the slow cooker?
A: To prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker, you can grease the bottom of the cooker with a little cooking spray or oil before adding the ingredients.