If you’re craving a comforting, one-pot meal that’s both easy and delicious, this Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole is the perfect dish for you.

Packed with tender chicken, creamy rice, and savory flavor, this casserole is a family favorite that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying.

Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty meal with minimal effort, this slow cooker recipe will quickly become a go-to.

Let’s get started on making this cozy, delicious casserole!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you dive into the cooking, gather these basic ingredients. The beauty of this recipe is that it uses simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe.
Rice: White rice is ideal for this casserole, as it cooks perfectly in the slow cooker.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This provides a creamy, rich base for the casserole.
Chicken Broth: Adds extra flavor and moisture to the dish.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese gives a melty, gooey finish that everyone loves.
Vegetables: You can use frozen peas, carrots, or any veggies you prefer.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for a flavorful base.

How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole (Step-by-Step)

Making this casserole is a breeze. Simply follow these steps, and you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready to enjoy.

Prepare the Chicken and Rice
Start by placing the chicken breasts (or thighs) at the bottom of the slow cooker. You can cut the chicken into chunks or leave them whole—either way, they’ll cook perfectly in the slow cooker.

Add the rice on top of the chicken. Spread it out evenly to ensure it cooks well.

Add the Soup and Broth
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth. Stir well until smooth, and then pour the mixture over the chicken and rice. The soup will help the rice cook and create a creamy texture.
Add the Vegetables and Seasonings
Next, sprinkle in the frozen peas, carrots, or any veggies you’re using. Then, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything together gently to ensure even distribution.
Slow Cook the Casserole
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked, and the rice tender. If needed, stir halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
Add the Cheese
Once the casserole is done, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover again and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole

Don’t overcook the chicken: If the chicken is overcooked, it can become dry. Monitor the cooking time, especially if you’re using chicken breasts.
Use extra broth if needed: If the rice seems dry or not fully cooked after the recommended time, add a little more chicken broth or water to the slow cooker.
Cheese variations: While cheddar is delicious, you can swap it for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.
Customize the veggies: Feel free to add in any vegetables you like. Mushrooms, corn, or green beans also work great in this casserole.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole

While this dish is a complete meal on its own, you can pair it with some tasty sides to round out the meal:

A crisp side salad: A light, fresh salad with a simple vinaigrette will complement the creamy casserole.
Garlic bread: For extra flavor and a crunchy contrast, serve with some warm garlic bread.
Steamed veggies: If you want more veggies, a side of steamed broccoli or green beans pairs well with this dish.
Storage, Reheating & Meal Prep Tips
Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place in the microwave or heat on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the casserole seems dry.
Freezing: You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Let the casserole cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. If you use brown rice, you may need to add more liquid and extend the cooking time by 1-2 hours.

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything in the slow cooker, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Simply cook it on the day you need it.