There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice filling your home on a chilly evening. This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce for a meal that's as satisfying as it is delicious.

I first tried this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something easy but hearty to feed my family. It quickly became a staple in our house, loved for its rich flavors and minimal effort. Whether you're feeding picky eaters or looking for an easy meal prep option, this dish is guaranteed to please.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Get ready to fall in love with this cozy, fuss-free meal that brings comfort food to a whole new level. Here’s why it’ll be your new favorite dinner:

Easy and Hands-Off: Your crockpot does all the work! Simply toss in the ingredients, set it, and forget it.
Family-Friendly: With creamy cheese, tender chicken, and hidden veggies, even picky eaters will clean their plates.
One-Pot Wonder: Save on cleanup – everything cooks together in one crockpot.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time, and enjoy reheatable portions for busy days.

If you’re looking for a recipe that tastes like a hug in a bowl, this is the one. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make it shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one contributes to its irresistible texture and flavor.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly here. They become incredibly tender after slow cooking and shred easily.
Rice: Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice is the best choice for a fluffy texture. Avoid instant rice, as it can turn mushy in the crockpot.
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli florets are ideal. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw beforehand – just toss them in!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese brings that signature creamy, tangy flavor. Feel free to mix in some mozzarella for extra melty goodness.
Chicken Broth: This keeps the rice moist and adds depth to the dish. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
Cream of Chicken Soup: A key player for that creamy, velvety texture. You can use a homemade version if you prefer.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Special Equipment

A large 6-quart crockpot is ideal for this recipe to allow enough space for the ingredients to cook evenly.

How To Make This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Creating this comforting dish is as easy as 1-2-3. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by placing your chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a flavorful base layer. Add uncooked rice on top, followed by chicken broth and a can of cream of chicken soup. Stir gently to combine.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your crockpot to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will cook through, and the rice will absorb all the delicious flavors. About 30 minutes before the cook time ends, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and stir it back into the crockpot.

Step 3: Add the Broccoli and Cheese

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add your broccoli florets. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt into the dish. The result is a creamy, cheesy mixture with perfectly cooked broccoli.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cooking time is up, give everything a good stir and taste for seasoning. Serve hot, and watch the smiles appear as your family digs in!

Storage Options

This recipe is perfect for leftovers and meal prep. Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain the creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Protein Options: Swap the chicken for turkey or cubed ham for a fun twist.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add extra veggies like carrots or peas.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gruyere for different flavor profiles.
Low-Carb Alternative: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. Add it in the last hour of cooking to prevent overcooking.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients – this recipe is forgiving and endlessly customizable.