Here’s a hearty, comforting, and super-easy Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Red Beans and Rice recipe — perfect for busy days when you want a flavorful, all-in-one meal with minimal fuss!
🍲 Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Red Beans and Rice
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6–7 hours (LOW) or 3–4 hours (HIGH)
Serves: 6
📝 Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Prep the Crock Pot:
- In the bottom of your slow cooker, combine onion, bell pepper, garlic, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and spices. Stir well.
2. Add Chicken & Rice:
- Place chicken breasts or thighs on top of the mixture. Sprinkle uncooked rice evenly over the chicken.
3. Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
4. Shred & Mix:
- Remove chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker. Stir everything together.
5. Add Cheese:
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve warm and enjoy!
✅ Tips:
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream before serving.
- Use brown rice, but increase cook time and add extra broth.
- Add hot sauce or cayenne if you want it spicier.