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Slow Cooker Chicken and Yellow Rice served in a bowl with fresh herbs, steam rising, creating a comforting meal scene.

Recipe Recap: Slow Cooker Chicken and Yellow Rice

Sarah
This comforting and flavorful dish combines tender chicken, aromatic yellow rice, and savory seasonings—all cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker for a perfect one-pot meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:

  • Chicken Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for tender, juicy results.
  • Yellow Rice A pre-seasoned mix or plain long-grain rice with turmeric and saffron for that golden color.
  • Chicken Broth Enhances flavor and keeps the rice perfectly moist.
  • Onion & Garlic A must for adding depth and aroma.
  • Bell Peppers Diced red or green peppers bring a touch of sweetness and color.
  • Olive Oil Helps coat the ingredients for even cooking.
  • Frozen Peas Stirred in at the end for a pop of color and freshness.

Spices & Seasoning:

  • Turmeric & Saffron Give the rice its signature yellow hue and subtle earthy flavor.
  • Paprika Adds a hint of smoky warmth.
  • Salt & Black Pepper Simple but essential for balancing flavors.
  • Cumin Brings a touch of warmth and depth.
  • Bay Leaf Infuses the dish with subtle herbal notes.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

  • Diced Tomatoes Adds a slight tang and richness.
  • Chopped Cilantro or Parsley A fresh garnish for extra flavor.
  • Sliced Olives A Mediterranean twist with a briny kick.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

  • Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents it from becoming mushy.
  • Dice the onion, garlic, and bell peppers for a fragrant, flavorful base.
  • Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, cumin, and paprika for a well-balanced taste.

Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

  • Drizzle olive oil at the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent sticking.
  • Add diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers as the flavorful base.
  • Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables.
  • Sprinkle in the rice, turmeric, and saffron, ensuring even distribution.
  • Pour in the chicken broth, making sure everything is submerged.
  • Add a bay leaf for extra depth of flavor.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

  • Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
  • About 30 minutes before serving, remove the bay leaf and shred the chicken with two forks. Stir it back in to let the flavors blend.
  • If the rice looks dry, add a splash of warm broth and stir gently.

Step 4: Final Touches

  • Stir in frozen peas and let them warm up in the residual heat.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Fluff the rice with a fork for the perfect texture.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving)
  • Calories: 300
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Carbs: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 30g