Slow Cooker Chicken Rice Bowl: Easy Weeknight Dinner

Slow cooker chicken rice bowl is more than just a weeknight dinner at my house; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a reminder of simpler times spent watching my grandmother effortlessly whip up comforting meals. This slow cooker chicken rice bowl recipe is inspired by those memories, a testament to the fact that delicious, satisfying food doesn’t require hours in the kitchen or a complicated list of ingredients. It’s all about letting time and simple flavors work their magic.

What began as a way to feed my family on busy evenings has quickly become one of the most requested recipes in my repertoire, and I’m so excited to share it with you. The versatility, the ease, the incredible flavor – it all comes together in a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, let’s get cooking!

Why You Will Love This slow cooker chicken rice bowl Recipe

This slow cooker chicken rice bowl recipe is a game changer for so many reasons. It is the ultimate comfort food transformed into a customizable and healthy meal. It’s also incredibly convenient; simply toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. Dinner practically cooks itself!

Remember those days when I’d be rushing home from work, dreading the whole dinner process? This recipe changed everything. It allowed me to prep in the morning and return to a house filled with the delicious aroma of slow cooked chicken, ready to be transformed into a vibrant rice bowl.

We make this recipe at least once a month. It is truly a family favorite. Did I mention how incredibly flavorful it is? The chicken becomes unbelievably tender and infused with a savory broth that perfectly complements fluffy rice and your favorite toppings.

Ingredients Needed for This slow cooker chicken rice bowl Recipe

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Cooked rice, for serving (brown or white)

You will also need toppings:

• Shredded carrots
• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Sriracha mayo (sriracha mixed with mayonnaise)
• Avocado slices

How to Make This slow cooker chicken rice bowl Recipe

1. 1. In a 6 quart or larger slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped red bell pepper, and diced tomatoes.
2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. 3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
4. 4. Cover and cook on low for 6 8 hours, or on high for 3 4 hours, or until the chicken is very tender and easily shreds with a fork. Be aware that slow cooker cook times can vary, so keep an eye on things!
5. 5. Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir to combine the shredded chicken with the sauce.
6. 6. To assemble the slow cooker chicken rice bowl , spoon cooked rice into a bowl and top with the shredded chicken mixture.
7. 7. Garnish with shredded carrots, sliced green onions, sesame seeds, sriracha mayo, and avocado slices.
8. 8. Dig in! This recipe also pairs nicely with this delicious Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl!

How to Serve This slow cooker chicken rice bowl Recipe

This slow cooker chicken rice bowl is best served immediately, while the chicken is warm and the toppings are fresh. Get creative with your toppings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sauces, vegetables, and textures. A squeeze of lime juice adds a bright touch. You can also serve them family style so everyone can customize their own bowl.

For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad. The beauty of these bowls is their versatility!

How to Store This slow cooker chicken rice bowl Recipe

Leftover slow cooker chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 4 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool completely before storing it.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Place it in a freezer safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 2 3 months.

To reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You might need to add a splash of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.

Tips to Make This slow cooker chicken rice bowl Recipe

• For extra flavor, brown the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. It adds a nice depth of flavor.
• If you don’t have chicken thighs, you can use chicken breasts. However, they may dry out more easily, so keep an eye on them and reduce the cooking time if needed.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level as desired.
• If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stirring it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Feel free to add other vegetables you like. Mushrooms, zucchini, or even broccoli would be delicious additions. I like to add a splash of rice wine vinegar to the chicken during the last 30 minutes to add some tang.

Helpful Notes for This slow cooker chicken rice bowl Recipe

Chicken thighs are my preference for this recipe because they are more flavorful and stay moist during the long cooking time in the slow cooker. However, chicken breasts can be used as a substitute if that is your preference.

Be sure to use low sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish. You can always add more salt later if needed. The smoky paprika adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar. If you do not have it, you can use regular paprika, but it will not have the same smoky flavor.

Remember, you can always adjust the seasoning to your liking. Taste the sauce and add more soy sauce, brown sugar, or spices as needed. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Variation of This slow cooker chicken rice bowl Recipe

For a spicier kick, add a tablespoon of sriracha or gochujang to the sauce. You can also substitute the diced tomatoes with a can of Rotel for added spice and flavor.

In the summer, you might add fresh mango salsa as a topping.

For a low carb option, serve the same chicken over cauliflower rice. This chicken is so incredibly tender and flavorful!

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also enjoy this similar recipe for Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl 3. For even more culinary inspiration, Follow us on Pinterest!

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy this simple, flavorful, and adaptable slow cooker chicken rice bowl recipe as much as my family and I do. It’s a meal that brings people together and satisfies every craving. Give this perfect recipe a go and share the love! I’d love to hear your thoughts on this slow cooker chicken rice bowl . Please leave a comment below if you try it!

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