There's nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice after a long day. This easy, comforting meal is packed with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked rice, all infused with rich flavors that come together effortlessly in your slow cooker.

I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I needed something simple yet satisfying. Little did I know it would become a family favorite! Now, it's my go-to meal for busy nights when I want a home-cooked dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Get ready to fall in love with this one-pot wonder! Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is the ultimate easy dinner that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.

First, it's unbelievably easy to make. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, let it do the work, and come back to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal. No complicated steps or constant stirring required!

It's also a complete meal in one dish. With tender chicken, cheesy rice, and nutritious broccoli, you’re getting protein, carbs, and veggies all in a single serving—perfect for busy families who want something hearty and wholesome.

Plus, this dish is incredibly kid-friendly. Even picky eaters love the creamy, cheesy goodness! The broccoli blends right in, making it an excellent way to sneak in some extra greens without complaints.

And let’s not forget the leftovers. If you’re lucky enough to have any, this dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in making this dish creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious.

Chicken – I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook perfectly in the slow cooker, shredding easily into tender, juicy pieces. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Rice – Long-grain white rice works best because it cooks evenly without getting mushy. Avoid instant rice, as it tends to overcook and lose its texture in the slow cooker.

Broccoli – Fresh or frozen broccoli florets both work well. If using fresh, cut it into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen, you can add it straight from the freezer—no need to thaw!

Cheese – The star of the dish! Sharp cheddar cheese provides the best flavor, melting beautifully into the rice. For extra creaminess, a little Velveeta or cream cheese can be added.

Chicken Broth & Milk – A mix of chicken broth and milk helps cook the rice while keeping everything rich and flavorful. If you want a creamier texture, you can swap some of the milk for heavy cream.

For equipment, you'll need a large slow cooker (at least 6 quarts) to ensure there's enough room for everything to cook evenly.

How To Make This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Making this dish couldn’t be easier! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready with minimal effort.

Start by placing the chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker. This allows it to cook evenly and soak up all the delicious flavors as everything simmers.

Next, add the rice, chicken broth, and seasonings. Stir gently to ensure the rice is fully submerged in liquid. Cover and cook on low for about 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. The meat should be tender enough to pull apart effortlessly. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Now, it’s time for the cheesy magic! Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and broccoli. Cover and let it cook for another 30 minutes on low, allowing the cheese to melt and the broccoli to become perfectly tender.

Give everything a good stir, adjusting seasoning if needed. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of extra broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Storage Options

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is great for leftovers! Here’s how to store it for maximum freshness.

For refrigeration, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

To freeze, place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For reheating, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra broth or milk as needed. The microwave works too—just heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is! Here are some fun ways to switch it up.

For a protein twist, swap the chicken for ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even diced ham. Each adds a unique flavor while keeping the dish hearty.

Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Make it extra creamy by stirring in sour cream, cream cheese, or an extra handful of shredded cheese right before serving.

If you need a low-carb version, swap the rice for cauliflower rice. Just add it at the end of cooking to prevent over-softening.

Looking for a vegetarian option? Skip the chicken and use mushrooms or chickpeas instead. The flavors still come together beautifully!

No matter how you customize it, this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is bound to be a hit. So go ahead—grab your slow cooker and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!