Slow Cooker Chicken, Broccoli, Rice Casserole
A comforting slow cooker casserole combining tender chicken, broccoli, creamy cheese, and rice, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in oil in a skillet until translucent.
- Add chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink.
- Combine the cooked onion and chicken, cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, Velveeta cheese, cooked rice, thawed broccoli, pepper, and drained mushroom pieces (if using) in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours until heated through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sautéed onion. You can substitute the Velveeta cheese with a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar if preferred. If you're looking to reduce calories, use low-fat cream of chicken soup and skim evaporated milk. This dish can also be customized by adding cooked carrots or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting twist, consider serving it with a side of mashed potatoes or a fruit salad to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions until warmed through or place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Adding a splash of milk can help maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Slow Cooker Chicken, Broccoli, Rice Casserole contains roughly 729 calories, with 16g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (164% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 794mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to pre-cook the brown rice according to package instructions before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure even cooking with the other ingredients.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply transfer everything to the slow cooker and set it to cook. This makes it a convenient option for busy days.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can make a homemade version by combining equal parts chicken broth and milk with a tablespoon of flour for thickening. Alternatively, use a can of cream of mushroom soup or a similar creamy soup for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).