There’s nothing better than coming home to a warm, comforting meal after a long day. This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is the ultimate one-pot dinner—rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor.

I first made this recipe on a hectic weekday when I needed something easy yet satisfying. Tossing everything into the slow cooker felt almost too simple, but the result? Pure magic! Every bite is packed with tender chicken, cheesy rice, and perfectly cooked broccoli.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

This dish is a lifesaver on busy nights, and here’s why you’ll love it as much as I do:

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. The crockpot does most of the work, leaving you free to tackle your to-do list. No standing over the stove or constant stirring required!

The flavors are absolutely delicious. Creamy, cheesy rice mixed with juicy chicken and tender broccoli—it’s the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition.

It’s a budget-friendly meal that feeds the whole family. With simple, everyday ingredients, you can make a hearty dinner without breaking the bank.

Plus, it’s a kid-friendly recipe! Even picky eaters love this cheesy goodness, and the broccoli blends right in, making it an easy way to sneak in some veggies.

By the time you lift the lid, your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of warm, cheesy comfort food. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe is in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – These cook up tender and shred easily into the rice mixture. You can also use chicken thighs for an even juicier result.

Uncooked long-grain white rice – White rice soaks up all the cheesy goodness, creating the perfect texture. Avoid instant rice, as it can become mushy in the slow cooker.

Chicken broth – This adds depth of flavor while keeping the rice soft and moist. Low-sodium broth works best if you prefer to control the salt level.

Cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar gives this dish a bold, cheesy flavor. Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for extra creaminess.

Cream of chicken soup – This thickens the dish and adds a rich, savory taste. You can substitute it with cream of mushroom or cream of cheddar for a twist.

Fresh or frozen broccoli – If using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it beforehand—it will cook perfectly in the crockpot. Fresh broccoli should be cut into small florets for even cooking.

Seasonings – Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper enhance the dish without overpowering it. A dash of paprika or Italian seasoning can add a little extra flavor.

Milk – A splash of milk at the end ensures a creamy consistency without making the dish too heavy.

Optional add-ins – For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon crumbles, diced bell peppers, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Making this dish is as easy as layering, stirring, and letting the crockpot work its magic.

Layer the ingredients – Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and top with cream of chicken soup. Stir slightly to combine.
Add the rice – Pour the uncooked rice over the chicken mixture, making sure it’s submerged in liquid. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is tender.
Shred the chicken – Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Stir it back into the mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
Add the broccoli – Stir in the broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) and continue cooking on low for 30 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Melt in the cheese – Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and a splash of milk. Continue cooking for about 10 more minutes until everything is creamy and well combined.
Serve and enjoy – Spoon the cheesy chicken broccoli rice into bowls and top with extra cheese or fresh parsley for garnish.

This recipe takes about 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, making it perfect for a hands-off meal.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This dish stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm up in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little broth or milk to maintain the creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is super versatile—here are some fun ways to switch it up:

Swap the protein – Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version, or try ground turkey for a leaner option.
Change up the cheese – Mix in mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack for different flavor profiles.
Add extra veggies – Stir in carrots, peas, or mushrooms for a more colorful dish.
Make it spicy – Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
Use brown rice – Brown rice works, but it will need a longer cook time (about 6-7 hours on low).

Feel free to get creative—this recipe is easy to customize based on what you have on hand!