Looking for a delicious, hassle-free meal that practically cooks itself? Say hello to the "Crock Pot Chicken Rice with Frozen Veggies"! This mouthwatering recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered to perfection in your trusty crock pot. With just 10 minutes of prep time and 4 hours of hands-off cooking, you can come home to a warm and hearty dinner that the whole family will love. Ready to impress your taste buds without breaking a sweat? Let’s dive into this easy and satisfying recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
- Lightly spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then sprinkle it evenly around and between the chicken pieces.
- Pour the chicken broth slowly over the rice and chicken, making sure all the rice is moistened and the liquid is distributed evenly.
- Add the frozen mixed vegetables on top of the chicken and rice, spreading them out to ensure even cooking.
- Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to cook on low heat for 4 hours, which will allow the chicken to become tender and the rice to absorb the broth.
- After 4 hours, carefully remove the lid and check that the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the rice is fluffy.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crock pot, mixing it with the rice and vegetables.
- Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the liquid to be fully absorbed.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: For even quicker prep, season your chicken and rinse the rice the night before. Store them in the fridge so you can simply toss everything in the crock pot in the morning.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out the frozen mixed vegetables with your favorites, such as broccoli, carrots, or peas. Fresh veggies can also work, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Add Flavor: Enhance the flavor by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a splash of soy sauce for an Asian twist.
- Check the Liquid: If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream right before serving.
- Use Leftovers Wisely: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 75mg
