Are you tired of the same old boring weeknight meals? Do you struggle to come up with new recipe ideas that can be prepared quickly and easily? Look no further! Crock pots are a busy cook’s best friend, allowing you to prepare a meal in advance and let it simmer away while you’re busy with other things. And what goes better with a crock pot meal than a warm, fluffy serving of rice?
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 delicious crock pot rice recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort food dishes like chicken and rice casserole to international flavors like Spanish rice with ground beef and Mexican rice with corn and peppers, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, grab your crock pot and let the cooking magic begin!
Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Casserole
A comforting and easy-to-make casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the Crock Pot, combine rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir until combined.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the Crock Pot and stir gently.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Spanish Rice with Ground Beef
Add a flavorful twist to your traditional rice dish with this slow cooker recipe featuring ground beef and the bold flavors of Spain.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the cooked ground beef, rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. When the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the olive oil.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Crock Pot Mushroom Rice
This comforting dish is a perfect blend of savory flavors and creamy texture, made easy by using your trusty crock pot. With minimal prep work, you’ll have a delicious side dish or main course ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Add rice, chicken broth, olive oil, onion, garlic, mushrooms, thyme, and salt to the crock pot. Stir until combined.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in heavy cream and butter until well combined.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Crock Pot Jambalaya with Rice
This hearty one-pot dish is a twist on the classic Louisiana-inspired jambalaya, made easy by using a crock pot. With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook chicken in a skillet with olive oil until browned, then add to the crock pot.
2. Add rice, diced tomatoes, red beans, onion, bell pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to the crock pot.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and crusty bread if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Coconut Rice Pudding
This creamy dessert is a perfect treat for any occasion. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can prepare this delightful pudding with minimal effort and enjoy its sweet, coconutty goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Vanilla extract, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine rice, water, coconut, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and butter until melted.
4. Add vanilla extract to taste.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli Rice Bowl
Satisfy your cravings with this easy and comforting Crock Pot recipe, perfect for a busy day or a quick weeknight dinner. This flavorful dish combines tender beef, crunchy broccoli, and creamy rice in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or chuck), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, green onions, and/or chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Place sliced beef in the Crock Pot.
2. Add broccoli, rice, beef broth, soy sauce, and ginger. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds, green onions, and/or chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Spicy Crock Pot Sausage and Rice
Spicy Crock Pot Sausage and Rice Recipe
Satisfy your cravings with this simple and flavorful slow-cooked dish. This recipe combines spicy sausage, savory rice, and aromatic spices for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, sliced
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the crock pot, combine sausage, rice, chicken broth, onion, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and smoked paprika.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Rice with Shrimp
This creamy, citrusy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you more time to enjoy the flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer and add to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together oil, garlic, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour mixture over rice.
3. Add shrimp on top of rice mixture.
4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork, then stir in shrimp.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
Experience the flavors of Japan with this easy and delicious Crock Pot recipe. Tender chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice come together to create a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in the Crock Pot.
2. In a separate bowl, combine rice, water, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir until well combined.
3. Pour the rice mixture over the chicken.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in sliced green onion and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Vegetarian Crock Pot Black Bean and Rice
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a busy day or a weeknight meal. This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of fiber and protein in a delicious and easy-to-make package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Add rice, water, black beans, onion, bell pepper, garlic, and cumin to the crock pot.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Rice
Elevate your rice game with this creamy, cheesy, and savory slow cooker recipe that combines the richness of bacon with the simplicity of a one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine rice, chicken broth, olive oil, diced onion, garlic, and paprika.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
3. About an hour before serving, add the diced bacon and stir to combine.
4. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the top and cook until melted and bubbly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Crock Pot Cilantro Lime Rice
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that’s perfect for any meal. This recipe combines the brightness of lime, the freshness of cilantro, and the comfort of rice in a simple and easy-to-make Crock Pot dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and add it to the Crock Pot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together water, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the rice in the Crock Pot.
4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-6 hours
Slow Cooker Pineapple Fried Rice
Elevate your fried rice game with this innovative recipe that combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory chicken and spices. Perfect for busy days, this slow cooker recipe requires minimal effort and yields a deliciously flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) pineapple rings in juice, drained
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, pineapple, soy sauce, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
3. Add cooked rice on top of the mixture.
4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Crock Pot Mexican Rice with Corn and Peppers
This recipe is a simple and delicious twist on traditional Mexican rice, packed with the sweetness of corn and the crunch of bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 large bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 packet of Mexican seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Add rice, water, diced tomatoes, corn, bell pepper, onion, and Mexican seasoning to a 6-quart Crock Pot.
2. Stir in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Rice with Chicken
A comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a busy day, this slow cooker recipe combines the richness of garlic butter rice with juicy chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, rice, garlic, butter, and chicken broth to a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Crock Pot Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup
This comforting Crock Pot recipe combines savory wild rice and tender mushrooms in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Add wild rice, water, olive oil, onion, garlic, and mushrooms to the Crock Pot.
2. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir well before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Honey Soy Rice with Vegetables
A delicious and easy-to-make one-pot meal that combines the sweetness of honey, savory soy sauce, and the comfort of slow-cooked rice and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine rice, water, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced red bell pepper, and sliced zucchini on top of the rice mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Red Beans and Rice
A classic Southern comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering. This recipe is a staple of many Louisiana households, where red beans are traditionally served with rice on Mondays (a tradition dating back to the 18th century!).
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. In the Crock Pot, combine the soaked red beans, oil, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the chicken broth and cooked rice.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a dash of hot sauce (optional).
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Summary
Looking for delicious and easy crock pot recipes to spice up your busy weeknights? Look no further! This article features 18 mouth-watering crock pot rice recipes that are sure to please. From classic comfort foods like chicken and rice casserole to international flavors like Spanish rice with ground beef, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for savory, sweet, or spicy, these recipes are perfect for a quick and easy dinner solution. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the convenience of your crock pot!
