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There is something about the comforting combination of tender chicken, velvety rice, and melted sharp cheddar that just feels like a warm hug on a plate. This Creamy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice with Cheddar Recipe hits all the right notes with its rich, luscious sauce, perfectly cooked rice, and that wonderful cheesy finish. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for busy weeknights, yet impressive and satisfying enough to become an instant family favorite. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever made cozy dinners without it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two stages of a dish inside a black slow cooker with a dark inner bowl. The top picture has a creamy, thick, white sauce with small green herb specks and pieces of light pink chicken submerged in the sauce. The bottom picture shows the finished dish, where the sauce has thickened and turned more textured with a golden-brown crust at the edges. The chicken pieces are visible on the surface, covered with a mix of white sauce and herbs, giving the dish a hearty and cooked appearance. The background surface is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these straightforward but essential ingredients is the first step to a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each one plays its role, from creamy butter and aromatic onion to sharp cheddar that brings the whole dish together with cheesy goodness and a beautiful golden hue.

Butter: Creates the rich base for the cream sauce and helps soften the onions perfectly.
Onion (diced): Adds savory sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Garlic (minced): Brings aromatic warmth and a subtle zing to the sauce.
All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to irresistibly creamy perfection.
Chicken broth: Infuses the entire dish with comforting, savory flavor.
Whole milk: Provides richness and smooth texture to the sauce.
Dried parsley: A mild herb that brightens the dish without overpowering.
Sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors beautifully.
Ground black pepper: Adds a subtle, pleasant kick.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts (cubed): Tender, lean protein that cooks perfectly in the slow cooker.
Long grain brown rice: Nutty texture that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
Sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded): Melts smoothly for that signature cheesy finish.
Fresh chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, green pop of color and flavor at the end.

How to Make Creamy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice with Cheddar Recipe

Step 1: Create the Cream Sauce Base

Start by heating a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter, then sauté the diced onions until they’re soft and translucent—about 4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic next and cook another minute until fragrant; this step builds the heavenly foundation of your sauce.

Step 2: Make the Roux and Whisk in Liquids

Sprinkle the flour over the butter and onions, stirring until it combines into a smooth roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and whole milk—this gradual mixing prevents lumps and yields a silky sauce. Stir in the dried parsley, sea salt, and black pepper, then bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble in the Crock Pot

Grease your 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick spray or butter to ensure easy cleanup. Pour in the creamy sauce, then add the cubed chicken, extra chicken broth, and brown rice. Stir gently to combine so every grain and piece of chicken is coated with that luscious sauce.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the Crock Pot and cook on HIGH for 2 to 2.5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken broth is fully absorbed and the rice is tender but not mushy. The slow cooker works its magic here to meld flavors and tenderize the chicken just right.

Step 5: Add the Cheddar Cheese and Serve

Once the rice is perfectly cooked, stir in the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese while the dish is still hot. The cheese melts smoothly, creating that creamy, indulgent layer everyone loves. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like a bit of brightness and color, and dig in!

How to Serve Creamy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice with Cheddar Recipe

The dish is shown in two layers inside a black slow cooker. The first layer is a creamy rice mix with light beige and specks of black pepper, topped evenly with a bright orange shredded cheese. In the second image, the cheese has melted into the rice, creating a smooth, glossy, light orange layer mixed into the rice. Bright green fresh parsley leaves and small pieces are sprinkled on top, adding color contrast. The slow cooker sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the classic topping to add a pop of color and fresh herbal notes, but you can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or a drizzle of hot sauce if you love a spicy kick. The garnishes make it feel special without much extra effort.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully hearty on its own, but pairing it with crisp steamed green beans, a simple cucumber salad, or roasted Brussels sprouts creates a balanced meal. A light side salad with tangy vinaigrette can also cut through the creaminess and keep things fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, serve this creamy chicken and rice in individual ramekins topped with extra shredded cheddar and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. You could even stuff bell peppers with the mixture for a fun twist. Whether family-style or plated up prettily, it always makes a comforting impression.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days, where the flavors have a chance to mingle even more—just be ready to give it a gentle stir before reheating.

Freezing

This Creamy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice with Cheddar Recipe freezes well, making it a perfect make-ahead option. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge prior to reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems too thick. Stir occasionally to warm the cheese evenly without drying out the rice or chicken.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Absolutely! White rice will cook faster and result in a softer texture. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and keep an eye on the rice to avoid overcooking, as brown rice generally holds up better in the slow cooker.

Is it necessary to shred the cheddar cheese myself?

Yes, freshly shredded cheddar melts much more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that can make it grainy. So, take a minute to shred it yourself for that perfect creamy finish.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

This recipe can be adapted for an Instant Pot using the slow cook function or by pressure cooking. If using pressure cook, cook on high pressure for about 20 minutes, then do a natural release. Be sure to monitor the liquid levels carefully.

What can I substitute for whole milk?

You can use 2% milk or even half-and-half for a richer sauce, but avoid skim milk as it won’t provide the same creamy consistency. Non-dairy alternatives like cashew milk are possible, but results may vary in creaminess and flavor.

Is it possible to add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Adding diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms can add extra nutrition and texture. Just incorporate them when you add the chicken and rice so they cook through evenly in the Crock Pot.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a cozy, creamy, and cheesy meal that practically cooks itself while you’re busy with your day, this Creamy Crock Pot Chicken and Rice with Cheddar Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s comforting, easy, and downright delicious—perfect for sharing with loved ones or simply treating yourself to a satisfying homemade dinner. You’re going to love how effortlessly this one becomes a staple in your recipe rotation.

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