Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice Recipe

Introduction

This Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice is a simple, flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, seasoned rice, melted cheese, and zesty salsa come together for a comforting dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup salsa
• 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions

1. Step 1: In your slow cooker, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, taco seasoning, salsa, and chicken broth. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
2. Step 2: Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the rice is tender and the mixture is creamy.
3. Step 3: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt.
4. Step 4: Stir gently before serving to combine the melted cheese throughout the dish.

Tips & Variations

• For added veggies, stir in chopped bell peppers or corn before cooking.
• Use brown rice if you prefer, but increase the cooking time accordingly.
• Swap shredded chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey for a different protein option.
• Add a squeeze of lime and fresh cilantro on top when serving for extra brightness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken but increase the slow cooking time and ensure it cooks thoroughly before adding cheese.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free taco seasoning and broth, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 78 reviews

This Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal combining tender chicken, seasoned rice, melted cheese, and zesty salsa. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it requires minimal prep and delivers a creamy, cheesy taco-inspired dish with vibrant Mexican flavors.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 1/4 cups chicken broth or water

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Set aside. Gather all necessary ingredients.
2. Add to Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken. Add the rinsed rice and pour in the salsa and chicken broth or water, spreading evenly across the top.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender and creamy. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat and moisture.
4. Shred Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture in the slow cooker. Cover and let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely and incorporate into the creamy rice and chicken mixture.
6. Serve: Stir the cheesy chicken taco rice gently before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

Notes

• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content if desired.
• For a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or hot salsa.
• Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier texture.
• Do not open the slow cooker frequently during cooking as it can prolong cooking time.
• This dish can be topped with fresh avocado or a squeeze of lime for added freshness.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, cheesy chicken rice, taco rice, easy slow cooker dinner, Mexican slow cooker recipe