Ah, let me tell you about my absolute favorite cozy meal – Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice! This recipe has become a go-to for those busy weekdays when I need a fulfilling dish without spending hours in the kitchen. I can still remember the first time I made it. After a long day at work, I returned home to find my house scented with a warm, savory aroma as I opened the door. That was the moment I realized: this is not just any dinner; it’s like getting a warm hug in a bowl!
What I adore about this dish is its simplicity and versatility. You can throw in whatever leftover veggies you have lying around, and you’re good to go! Plus, it’s always a big hit with family and friends, no matter the occasion. So, if you’re looking for something hearty and comforting, let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
What’s in Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice?
Chicken Thighs: I like using bone-in and skin-on chicken thighs because they stay moist and tender during cooking, plus the skin adds fantastic flavor.
Long-Grain White Rice: This rice variety provides that fluffy texture and absorbs the delicious broth and spices beautifully.
Chicken Broth: Using a good-quality chicken broth is key for flavor! You can go low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Green Peas: Fresh or frozen, these little gems add a pop of color and sweetness to the dish.
Carrots: Diced carrots not only bring sweetness but also a lovely texture contrast to the tender rice and chicken.
Onion and Garlic: These are the aromatic base that creates a heavenly flavor when they sauté and mingle with the other ingredients.
Dried Thyme and Paprika: Both spices add depth and warmth to the dish. I’m a huge fan of paprika’s smokiness!
Salt and Pepper: Basic, but essential to enhance all the flavors of the dish.
Fresh Thyme: This is optional, but if you can snag some fresh thyme for garnish, it brings everything together nicely!
Is Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Good for You?
This dish is not just comforting for the soul but can also have its health benefits.
Chicken Thighs: Besides being delicious, chicken thighs provide a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle health.
Rice: While it’s a carb, long-grain white rice is easily digestible and can provide a quick energy boost.
Vegetables (Carrots & Peas): These bring in essential vitamins and fiber. If you want to up the health factor, feel free to toss in additional veggies like bell peppers or broccoli!
Now, the only thing to consider is that this dish does contain sodium, especially if you’re using regular chicken broth and seasoned chicken. But don’t worry; opting for low-sodium versions is a simple fix!
Ingredients List
– 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme for garnish
*Serves 4*
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice?
1. **Prepare the Chicken**: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
2. **Sear the Chicken** (optional, but recommended): Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until they are golden brown (about 5-7 minutes) and then flip to sear the other side for another 5 minutes.
3. **Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker**: In your slow cooker, add the long-grain rice, diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, green peas, and dried thyme.
4. **Add Liquid**: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all the rice is submerged.
5. **Add Chicken**: Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice and broth mixture.
6. **Cook**: Cover and set the slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
7. **Finishing Touches**: After cooking, gently fluff the rice with a fork and stir to combine everything. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. **Garnish and Serve**: Serve hot and even sprinkle with fresh thyme for that rustic, tasty finish!
Serving Suggestions for a Cozy Dinner
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for some crunch. And let’s be honest—leftovers are a dream! You can store them in the refrigerator for up to three days, and they make for a satisfying lunch or dinner later on. Feel free to mix and match with other veggies you have on hand, like bell peppers or corn, to keep things interesting!
I hope you give this Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe a try! It warms the heart and fills the belly—a true classic! I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so don’t hesitate to drop a comment or a photo of your creation. Happy cooking!
