Are you tired of the same old boring chicken and rice dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious and flavorful crock pot recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy cajun, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouth-watering meals.
With the ease of a crock pot, you can have a hearty and satisfying dinner on the table with minimal effort. Simply add your ingredients, turn it on, and let the slow cooker do the work for you. The result is tender, juicy chicken and flavorful rice that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll be exploring a wide range of international flavors and cuisines, from classic comfort food to bold and exotic flavors. Whether you’re looking for something spicy, cheesy, or simply easy to make, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and get ready to drool over these incredible chicken and rice recipes!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
This comforting dish combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and creamy sauce with tender chicken and fluffy rice. A perfect weeknight dinner that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the sauce and stir to coat.
7. Serve over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice
This spicy Cajun chicken and rice dish combines the bold flavors of cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic with juicy chicken and fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any time!
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup long-grain white rice
• 3 cups water
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add rice and water to the skillet; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
This bright and flavorful dish combines the richness of chicken with the zestiness of lemon and the warmth of herbs, all perfectly balanced on a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Stir in lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the sauce.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the rice mixture on top.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Chicken and Rice with Black Beans
This hearty dish combines the comfort of chicken and rice with the bold flavors of Mexico, all wrapped up in a delicious package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked rice, black beans, and chicken to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowl
This classic Japanese-inspired dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style short-grain rice (or regular white rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced for garnish
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for optional topping
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of water. Set aside.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Brush the cooked chicken with the teriyaki sauce mixture and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve the chicken on top of cooked rice in a bowl. Garnish with green onion slices and optional sesame seeds or chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice
A comforting one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, this Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice recipe is a crowd-pleaser. With the added bonus of being quick to prepare and cook, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli to the same pan and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rice and chicken broth to the pan, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and combined with the rice mixture.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat with the cheesy rice mixture.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken and Rice
Experience the warmth of Indian-inspired flavors with this aromatic Coconut Curry Chicken and Rice dish. A perfect combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy curry sauce, all infused with the sweetness of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve chicken and sauce over cooked rice. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Rice Casserole
This classic casserole combines the flavors of tender chicken, creamy BBQ sauce, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Add BBQ sauce, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked rice in the bottom. Top with the chicken mixture, then cover with remaining rice.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice with Olives
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the brightness of lemon with the savory taste of chicken, rice, and olives. This classic Greek recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Add garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken mixture.
6. Top with sliced olives and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pineapple Chicken and Rice with Bell Peppers
A flavorful and colorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple, the savory taste of chicken, and the crunch of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow), sliced
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, pineapple chunks, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add the chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the rice mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines flavorful garlic butter chicken with creamy cooked rice, all in one pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium, add remaining butter and garlic; sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic butter mixture. Cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add chicken broth and thyme; bring to a boil. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chicken and Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Morocco with this aromatic dish, featuring tender chicken and fluffy rice infused with warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp chicken broth
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add chicken, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked rice, chicken broth, and chopped parsley or cilantro (if using).
4. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until liquid has been absorbed and chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken and Rice with Blue Cheese
Get ready for a spicy and savory twist on traditional chicken and rice! This recipe combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with creamy blue cheese, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add Frank’s RedHot sauce and garlic powder. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat with buffalo sauce mixture.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with rice and buffalo sauce.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with blue cheese crumbles.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice
A sweet and tangy twist on classic comfort food, this recipe combines the flavors of honey, mustard, and chicken with a side of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and paprika.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with olive oil. Spoon the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the top of each breast.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions.
6. Serve chicken breasts with a side of warm, fluffy rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken and Rice
This flavorful dish combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the savory taste of chicken and rice, all wrapped up in a spicy Thai-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
4. Pour peanut sauce into the skillet and stir to combine with chicken mixture.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Ranch Chicken and Rice
A creamy and savory dish that combines the flavors of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the chicken in a skillet with a little oil until browned, then set aside.
3. In the same skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, ranch dressing, heavy cream, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Add the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the rice mixture. Toss until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Rice with Feta
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the classic comfort of chicken and rice with the tanginess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in a fragrant blend of herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed Mediterranean herbs (such as oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in mixed herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with herb mixture.
7. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the rice mixture over the top.
8. Top with feta cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Pesto Chicken and Rice with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This flavorful dish combines the richness of pesto sauce, the tenderness of chicken, and the natural sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken breast with 1 tbsp olive oil until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, pesto sauce, and chicken breast. Toss to coat.
5. Stir in the cooked sun-dried tomatoes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: 20-25 minutes
– Total time: 30-35 minutes
Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice
A flavorful and aromatic one-pot dish that combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and tangy salsa verde sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup Salsa Verde (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through (6-8 minutes).
3. Stir in Salsa Verde, oregano, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet; stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chicken and Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of smoky chipotle peppers with juicy chicken and savory rice, creating a mouth-watering dish perfect for any meal. The bold and spicy flavors are balanced by the comforting warmth of cooked rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp chipotle powder (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle powder. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Serve with cooked rice and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these mouthwatering chicken and rice crock pot recipes! With 20 flavorful options, you’ll never run out of ideas. From classic comfort foods like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice to bold international flavors like Moroccan Spiced Chicken and Rice, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, creamy, or herby, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, let the crock pot do the work, and enjoy a stress-free dinner with family and friends!
