There’s something magical about tossing a handful of ingredients into a slow cooker, walking away, and returning hours later to a meal that smells like pure comfort. This Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is exactly that kind of dish—hearty, flavorful, and unbelievably easy.
The tender chicken absorbs every ounce of smoky, spiced goodness from the taco seasoning, while the rice soaks up the rich tomato broth, creating a dish that’s equal parts cozy and downright addictive.
If you’ve ever struggled with mushy slow-cooker rice, you’re not alone. The trick? Let the rice cook just long enough to become fluffy but not overdone. This recipe nails the timing, ensuring every bite is perfectly textured.
And let’s talk about the flavors—this isn’t your average chicken and rice. The sweetness of red bell peppers, the zing of cayenne, and the savory punch of taco spices come together in a way that’s deeply satisfying. It’s a one-pot meal that hits the spot, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a lazy weekend comfort meal.
Pair it with Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers for a touch of sweetness or a slice of Strawberry Icebox Pie to round things out with a cool, creamy finish. Seriously, one bite of this dish, and you’ll wonder why you ever made chicken and rice any other way.
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too!)
- Set it and forget it! No need to hover over the stove—just dump, stir, and let the slow cooker do the work.
- The spice blend is next-level: The taco seasoning, cayenne, and black pepper give this dish bold, Tex-Mex-inspired flavor.
- It’s meal-prep friendly: Make a big batch, and you’ve got lunch sorted for days.
- The texture is just right: No mushy rice, no dry chicken—just a perfect balance of tender and fluffy.
- Customizable to your taste! Add black beans, corn, or even a dollop of sour cream on top for a fun twist.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Recipe
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 28 ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 large red bell peppers coarsely chopped
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 cup water
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 1 ounce package taco seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Add diced tomatoes, chicken, bell peppers, onion, taco seasoning, salt, black pepper, and cayenne to the slow cooker. Stir to mix.
- Pour in water and uncooked rice, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is tender and the rice is fully cooked.
- Stir once halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings like cheese, cilantro, or avocado.
- Pair it with Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers or end with a sweet Strawberry Icebox Pie!
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 316kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 54g |
| Protein | 17g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Sugar | 9g |
| Sodium | 1589mg |
Flavor-Packed Variations You Haven’t Tried Yet!
- Charred Pepper Kick – Roast the red bell peppers over an open flame or under the broiler before adding them to the slow cooker. This adds a deep, smoky flavor that makes a noticeable difference.
- Salsa Swap – Instead of diced tomatoes, stir in a smoky chipotle salsa or fire-roasted tomato salsa for an instant boost in richness and depth. Bonus: It thickens the sauce beautifully.
- Crispy Finish – Transfer the cooked chicken and rice to a cast-iron skillet and broil for 3-5 minutes for a crispy, golden top. It adds a whole new layer of texture!
- Umami Boost – Stir in a spoonful of soy sauce or fish sauce before serving. It deepens the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
- Coconut Infusion – Swap half the water for coconut milk. It adds a subtle creaminess and a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- Lime Zest Magic – Right before serving, sprinkle fresh lime zest over the dish. It brightens up the flavors in a way that lemon juice alone can’t.
- Slow-Cooked Crunch – Add roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or crushed tortilla chips on top just before serving for a delightful crunch in every bite.
- Savory Depth – A dash of smoked paprika or a spoonful of harissa paste can transform this dish into something unexpectedly bold and layered.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
