Slow-Cooked Creamy Chicken and Rice Delight is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and flavorful seasonings. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this one-pot meal is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. Below is a detailed recipe with step-by-step instructions, variations, and tips to help you create the perfect Slow-Cooked Creamy Chicken and Rice Delight.
Ingredients
For the chicken and rice:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Place the chicken thighs or breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the rice, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Add the Liquids
- Pour the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk over the chicken and rice. Stir gently to combine.
Step 3: Cook the Dish
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the rice is cooked through.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the rice and sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon the creamy chicken and rice into serving bowls.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spicy Version: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Chicken and Rice: Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese before serving.
Cooking Notes
- For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- If the rice is too dry, add a splash of chicken broth or milk before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings—this dish is always a crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time:
- About 6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes (high)
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure the rice is fully cooked.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the dish up to 2 days in advance. Reheat before serving.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use additional milk, but the dish will be less rich and creamy.
Conclusion
Slow-Cooked Creamy Chicken and Rice Delight is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, creamy rice, and rich seasonings, this one-pot dish is sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe!
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