Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
| |

Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

ByLily Carter
Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’ve been hunting for a comforting and hands-off dinner, this Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is going to become your new best friend. What I love about this dish is how it effortlessly combines wholesome ingredients like brown rice, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli into one creamy, cheesy casserole that’s pure comfort food. Whether you’re gearing up for a busy weeknight or need a crowd-pleaser for family dinner, this recipe has you covered.

I’ve made it countless times when I want something nourishing without the fuss, and the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. Plus, that subtle Dijon mustard and Parmesan finish really bring it to life, making each bite satisfying and flavorful. Trust me, once you try this Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe, it’ll be the one you turn to when you want warm, hearty, and easy in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work beautifully together to create layered flavors and a great texture balance. When shopping, fresh broccoli and quality chicken can make a noticeable difference, and rinsing your brown rice well is key for perfect tenderness.

  • Small onion: Adds sweetness and depth; finely chopped so it cooks evenly in the slow cooker.
  • Long grain brown rice: Essential for cooking time and texture balance; rinsed well to remove excess starch.
  • Dijon mustard: Gives a nice tang and brings complexity to the creamy base.
  • Garlic powder: For an easy way to layer in that classic savory flavor.
  • Dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note that complements chicken perfectly.
  • Salt: Enhances all the flavors, but low sodium broth helps control overall saltiness.
  • Black pepper: A touch of spice that brightens the dish.
  • Low sodium chicken broth: The cooking liquid that flavors the rice and keeps everything moist.
  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that cooks tender and easy to shred.
  • Broccoli: Steamed separately to keep it bright green and perfect in texture.
  • Plain Greek yogurt (optional): Adds creaminess without heaviness—feel free to skip or substitute with sour cream if you prefer.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty richness to the casserole.
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy goodness, balancing the tang from the mustard and yogurt.

Variations

One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. I’m all about swapping ingredients to fit what I have in the fridge or match dietary needs.

  • Vegetarian version: I’ve swapped chicken for firm tofu cubes or chickpeas on occasion—just increase cooking time for chickpeas or add tofu towards the end.
  • Cheese choices: Trying a mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack gives a milder flavor that’s great for picky eaters in my family.
  • Spice it up: A pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick that I enjoy when I want a little warmth.
  • Use frozen broccoli: When fresh isn’t available, frozen works—just steam it well separately to avoid extra water making the casserole watery.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Base in the Slow Cooker

Start by tossing the chopped onion, rinsed brown rice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper into the bottom of your slow cooker. This is the flavor foundation, so mix it well to evenly distribute the seasoning—that guarantees every bite tastes balanced. I like to give it a good stir here because the rice needs to soak in the broth and spice evenly.

Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken

Pour the low sodium chicken broth over the dry mix and stir just enough to combine. Nestle the chicken breasts on top—no need to submerge them fully. A sprinkle of extra black pepper over the chicken adds an extra layer of seasoning as it cooks. Then pop the lid on and set your slow cooker to high for about 3 hours. Timing can vary a bit, so check that the chicken hits 165°F internally.

Step 3: Cook Broccoli Separately

While the slow cooker does its job, steam your broccoli on the stove or microwave it. Cooking broccoli separately helps preserve the vibrant green color and prevents it from getting mushy. I like mine tender but still with a little crunch—that stage happens fast, so keep an eye on it!

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and chop into bite-sized pieces. Stir the plain Greek yogurt, Parmesan, and cheddar into the rice mixture until creamy and melty. Add the broccoli and chopped chicken back in, then stir gently to combine everything evenly. Sometimes I give it a minute or two on warm to let all those cheeses meld perfectly.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

The image shows eight white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. Starting from the top left, the first bowl contains a smooth, light beige liquid. To its right, there is a bowl filled with light brown grains. Below these, there are two small bowls with dry herbs in dark green and coarse pepper in black and grey. The middle left bowl holds bright green broccoli florets with a rough texture. In the center right, a bowl is filled with fluffy white cauliflower rice. At the bottom left, a bowl contains orange shredded cheese, and to its right is a bowl of thick, white yogurt with a creamy texture. Two small bowls of fine white salt are placed near the middle. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle some extra Parmesan or freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes a little squeeze of lemon juice brightens the whole dish beautifully—try it if you love a hint of tang to cut through the richness.

Side Dishes

Since this casserole is a meal itself, I usually keep sides simple—maybe a crisp garden salad or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up any extra sauce. Roasted carrots or a simple cucumber salad also pair nicely if you want a little more veggie variety.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this in cute individual ramekins sprinkled with toasted breadcrumbs on top for crunch. It’s also fun to layer with extra cheese in between for that wow factor. If you’re hosting a potluck, a casserole dish garnished with fresh herbs and bright cherry tomatoes makes it inviting and festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I find it’s best to add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep things moist, since rice tends to soak up liquids overnight. Stir gently while warming to distribute the moisture evenly.

Freezing

This Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe freezes well, which is such a blessing on busy days. I portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just avoid freezing the broccoli separately to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

When reheating, whether from fridge or freezer, I use the microwave or oven at low heat with a cover to keep the moisture in. Stirring halfway through helps it heat evenly without drying out the chicken or rice. If you find it too thick, that splash of broth again is your best friend!

FAQs

  1. Can I use white rice instead of brown rice in this recipe?

    Brown rice is recommended because it holds up better during the slow cooking process and absorbs flavors nicely without becoming mushy. White rice cooks faster and can turn too soft or soggy in the slow cooker, so it’s best to stick with brown rice for this recipe.

  2. Do I have to cook the broccoli separately?

    Cooking broccoli separately helps maintain its bright color and pleasant texture. If you add it directly to the slow cooker with everything else, it tends to overcook and become mushy. Steaming or microwaving broccoli just before serving keeps it fresh and vibrant.

  3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

    Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more moisture and flavor, but remember they might require adjustments in cooking time depending on their size. Keep an eye on your slow cooker and check for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure safety.

  4. Is the Greek yogurt necessary?

    Greek yogurt is optional and adds extra creaminess without making the dish too heavy. If you don’t have it on hand or prefer a dairy-free version, you can leave it out or substitute with sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

  5. How do I avoid the casserole becoming watery?

    Make sure to rinse your brown rice well and steam the broccoli separately to prevent excess water from being released. Also, use low sodium broth to control salt and watch that you don’t overcook in the slow cooker, as overcooking can sometimes cause excess liquid.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe holds a special place in my meal rotation because it feels like a hug on a busy day—comforting, nourishing, and super approachable. I love how the slow cooker takes the pressure off so I can do other things, while the final dish feels homemade and full of love. Give it a try; I’m confident it’ll become your go-to for those easy, wholesome dinners that everyone looks forward to.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 375 reviews
  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Salt
Print Recipe

Description

This Slow Cooker Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-pot meal combining tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and wholesome brown rice cooked slowly to perfection. Enhanced with Greek yogurt and cheesy Parmesan and cheddar, it offers a creamy texture without requiring much hands-on time, making it ideal for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 cup long grain brown rice, rinsed and drained
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth

Protein & Vegetables

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 pound broccoli, cut into small pieces

Finishing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Combine Base Ingredients: Place the chopped onion, rinsed brown rice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper into the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates the flavorful base for your casserole.
  2. Add Broth and Stir: Pour the low sodium chicken broth over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution and help the rice cook properly.
  3. Arrange Chicken: Nestle the boneless skinless chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture, seasoning them lightly with extra black pepper to enhance flavor.
  4. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours, typically around 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice has absorbed most of the broth.
  5. Prepare Broccoli Separately: While the slow cooker works, steam the broccoli on the stovetop (preferred) or alternatively use the microwave or oven roasting method for best texture and color retention.
  6. Cut the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts carefully and place on a cutting board. Chop them into bite-sized pieces for even mixing.
  7. Create Creamy Base: To the rice and broth mixture remaining in the slow cooker, add the optional Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to combine and create a rich, creamy consistency.
  8. Combine and Serve: Return the chopped chicken and cooked broccoli to the slow cooker. Gently stir all ingredients until evenly blended. Serve hot for a delicious, comforting casserole.

Notes

  • Do not substitute white rice for the brown rice, as cooking times and textures will differ.
  • Steaming broccoli separately prevents it from overcooking and losing its vibrant color and nutrients.
  • Greek yogurt addition is optional but adds extra creaminess without heaviness.
  • If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the broth slightly or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
  • Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
Avatar photo

Life at home is full of love, laughter, and good food. I’m Lily Carter, a mom to two lively girls who keep me on my toes. When I’m not with them, I’m in the kitchen cooking meals that bring us comfort. And it’s not just me—my husband’s the quiet force behind the scenes, making sure everything looks just as good as it tastes.

Similar Posts