This Easy Southwest Crock Pot Chicken and Rice dish is packed with tasty flavors! Just toss together chicken, rice, beans, and some spices, then let the slow cooker do all the work.
I love how this meal magically cooks itself! Plus, it’s great for busy days when you want something warm and filling without the fuss. Perfect for cozy dinners! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use thighs for a juicier texture or even turkey, but remember to adjust cooking times.
Rice: Long grain white rice is recommended. If you want a quicker option, you can use instant rice. Alternatively, brown rice works too, but it will need more liquid and longer cooking times.
Black Beans: Canned black beans add protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan, pinto beans or even kidney beans can be a good substitution. If you’re avoiding beans, you could skip them altogether.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought seasoning is handy, but you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika if you prefer a fresher taste or need to adjust spices.
How Do I Get the Rice Just Right in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking rice in a crock pot can be tricky since it can turn mushy if not done correctly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use the right ratio of liquid to rice; for long grain rice, about 1.5 cups of liquid per cup of rice usually works well.
- Do not lift the lid while it’s cooking! This lets steam escape and may lead to undercooked rice.
- If using brown rice, add extra cooking time and a bit more broth, since it takes longer to cook.
- Always fluff the rice gently after cooking instead of stirring to keep it light.
Easy Southwest Crock Pot Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then allows for hands-free cooking! You can cook it on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, making it perfect for a busy day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crock Pot:
Start by spraying the inside of the crock pot with cooking spray. This helps prevent the ingredients from sticking to the pot, making cleanup easier!
2. Layer the Chicken:
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. These will be the first layer that soaks up all those delicious flavors.
3. Add the Taco Seasoning:
Evenly sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken. This adds great southwest flavor to the dish!
4. Add the Other Ingredients:
Now it’s time to layer! Add the uncooked rice, drained black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies on top of the chicken. Don’t worry about mixing yet; everything will come together as it cooks.
5. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
Carefully pour the chicken broth over everything in the crock pot. This will ensure that the rice cooks properly and absorbs all the flavors.
6. Cook and Wait:
Cover the crock pot with its lid. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’re waiting until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Remember, don’t lift the lid while it’s cooking!
7. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, take off the lid and carefully shred the chicken using two forks. Stir everything together so the flavors mix well.
8. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you like cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar on top and cover the crock pot for a few minutes until the cheese melts. It makes the dish even more scrumptious!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your dish with chopped fresh cilantro. This adds a lovely fresh touch and bright flavor to your meal!
Enjoy your delicious Southwest-inspired Crock Pot Chicken and Rice! It’s a simple, hearty dish that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to cook it on high for about 4-5 hours to ensure it’s fully cooked through. Avoid cooking on low with frozen chicken as it may not reach a safe temperature in time.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or even water in a pinch. Just note that using water may result in a less rich flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with an extra can of beans or some diced bell peppers. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or carrots for more texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems a bit dry.
