Go Back
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients. You will create a delicious meal with just a crockpot and these items. - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) - 1 cup uncooked brown rice - 4 cups chicken broth - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional for browning chicken) You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste. If you want, use white rice instead of brown rice. You can also swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack cheese. For a veggie boost, add carrots or peas to the mix. If you like spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option. These changes let you make the dish your own while still keeping it tasty. First, gather your ingredients. You will need: - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) - 1 cup uncooked brown rice - 4 cups chicken broth - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional for browning chicken) Next, decide if you want to sear the chicken. Searing adds flavor. If time is short, skip this step. For searing, heat olive oil in a skillet. Place chicken into the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. You want a light golden color. Now it's time to layer the ingredients in the crockpot. Start by placing the chicken at the bottom. This forms the base of your dish. Next, sprinkle the uncooked brown rice over the chicken. Make sure the rice covers the chicken well. Now, add the broccoli florets on top of the rice. Spread them out evenly. This ensures every bite has broccoli. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir this mixture well. Then, pour it over the layered ingredients in the crockpot. Cover the crockpot with the lid. Set the heat to low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked, and the rice should be soft. Once the cook time is up, remove the chicken. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot. Next, add the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until it's creamy and well mixed. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve your hot cheesy chicken broccoli rice right away. Enjoy the comforting flavors! For the full recipe, check the overview above. To make this dish shine, use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic and onion add a great kick. If you want extra depth, try adding a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. This small addition can give your dish a unique twist. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for heat. Don’t forget to taste as you cook. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference. One common mistake is not layering correctly. Always put the chicken at the bottom. If you put the rice directly on the chicken, it can stick. Make sure to use enough liquid. If the rice is dry, it won't cook well. Lastly, avoid lifting the lid often. Each time you peek, heat escapes. This can lead to uneven cooking. Serve your cheesy chicken broccoli rice in colorful bowls. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for a melty finish. A few parsley leaves can add a nice pop of color. Pair this dish with a simple green salad for balance. If you want, add crusty bread on the side for dipping. You can find the Full Recipe to create this dish easily and enjoy the fun of cooking! {{image_4}} You can switch out ingredients to match your taste. Use cauliflower rice instead of brown rice. This swap cuts carbs and adds a new texture. If you prefer a different protein, use turkey or tofu. Both options will work well in this dish. You can also try using different cheeses. Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for some heat. If you need a dairy-free option, use vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast. This keeps the creamy texture while making it plant-based. For gluten-free needs, make sure your broth is gluten-free. You can even add more veggies. Try bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra color and nutrition. You can make this recipe on the stove or in the oven. For the stove, cook on low heat for about 30 minutes. Stir often to prevent sticking. In the oven, preheat to 350°F and bake for 45 minutes in a covered dish. Both methods can yield a tasty meal, though the crockpot makes it super easy. Feel free to explore these variations and make this dish your own! You can find the Full Recipe above to guide you through your cooking adventure. After making Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice, let it cool down. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This dish keeps well and makes for a quick meal later. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, cool the dish completely. Then, pack it in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to label your containers with the date! When you’re ready to eat, defrost your meal in the fridge overnight if frozen. To reheat, use the microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between. If using the stovetop, add a bit of broth or water to keep it moist. Heat until steaming hot and enjoy your cheesy delight again! You can serve this dish with a side salad or crusty bread. A light green salad adds freshness. Garlic bread provides a nice crunch and pairs well with the creamy rice. You could also try a fruit salad for a sweet contrast. Each option adds a fun twist to your meal. Yes, you can use other cheeses! Try mozzarella for a gooey texture. Gouda adds a rich, smoky flavor. Pepper jack gives it a spicy kick. Just remember to use cheese that melts well. Mix and match to find the flavor you love most. Check the chicken for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. If you do not have one, cut into the thickest part of the chicken. The meat should be white, not pink. Ensure the juices run clear for safety. This blog post covered all the key parts of making a great Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice dish. We explored the ingredients, detailed steps, tips, and variations. I shared helpful tips to enhance flavors and avoid common mistakes. You also learned about proper storage and answered frequent questions. I hope you feel ready to cook this dish with confidence. Enjoy every bite, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice recipe! It's a delicious one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, wholesome brown rice, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in creamy cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is easy to prepare and cooks itself while you go about your day. Click through to explore the full recipe and enjoy a hearty, cheesy dinner that everyone will love!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

1 cup uncooked brown rice

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil (optional for browning chicken)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken (Optional): In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they acquire a light golden brown color. This optional step enhances the flavor of the chicken but can be omitted if you are in a hurry.

    Layer the Ingredients: In your crockpot, arrange the seared (or raw) chicken breasts at the bottom as the foundation.

      Add the Rice: Evenly sprinkle the uncooked brown rice over the top of the chicken, ensuring it covers the surface well.

        Incorporate the Broccoli: Gently place the broccoli florets atop the rice layer, making sure they are spread out evenly.

          Mix the Broth and Seasonings: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices are well incorporated, then carefully pour this mixture over the layered ingredients in the crockpot.

            Cook the Dish: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. You should cook until the chicken is fully cooked through and the rice is soft and tender.

              Shred the Chicken: After the cooking time is complete, remove the cooked chicken from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it back to the pot, mixing it into the other ingredients.

                Combine the Cheeses: Stir in the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are creamy and harmoniously blended together.

                  Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dish and make any necessary adjustments to seasoning by adding more salt and pepper according to your preference.

                    Serve and Enjoy: Serve your hot cheesy chicken broccoli rice immediately. Enjoy the comforting flavors!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours | Servings: 4-6

                        - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the dish in vibrant bowls, garnishing with an extra sprinkle of melted cheese and a few fresh parsley leaves for a touch of color and freshness.