Comfort in a Bowl: Wisconsin's Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe

Photo byNaomi Madison

In Wisconsin, where comfort food reigns supreme, there’s nothing quite like the simplicity and heartiness of a one-pot meal. As the leaves begin to change, homes across the state turn to slow cookers, filling kitchens with warmth and savory scents. Among these beloved dishes, Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice has earned its place as a go-to recipe for busy families and comfort seekers alike.

This recipe brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and sharp Wisconsin cheddar cheese—because no dish is complete in the Dairy State without cheese. Slow-cooked to perfection, this meal not only captures the essence of Wisconsin’s love for cheesy goodness but also offers a wholesome, easy-to-make option for any night of the week. With minimal prep and the magic of a crockpot, this dish offers rich flavors, from creamy cheddar to savory chicken and perfectly cooked rice.

Let’s dive into how to make this Wisconsin-inspired Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave a comforting and satisfying meal.

Recipe: Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice – Wisconsin Style

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor depth)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon each of salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup long-grain brown rice or risotto rice (rinsed)
• 1 lb broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated (Wisconsin cheddar preferred)

Instructions:

1. Prep The Chicken
   Start by chopping your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, around 1 to 1½ inches. This helps ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
   In your slow cooker, combine the chicken broth, sour cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and seasonings—thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix all the ingredients well.
3. Add Chicken and Rice
   Next, add the rinsed rice and the bite-sized chicken pieces to the slow cooker. Stir everything to evenly distribute the flavors and ensure the rice is coated with the broth mixture.
4. Add Broccoli
   Gently place the broccoli florets (either fresh or frozen) on top of the chicken and rice mixture.
5. Cover and Cook
   Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. If you're in a hurry, you can also cook on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked, the rice is tender, and the broth has been absorbed.
6. Melt the Cheese
   Once everything is cooked, stir half of the grated cheddar cheese into the crockpot. Then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt into a gooey, delicious layer.
7. Serve
   Once the cheese has melted, it's time to dig in! You can add a sprinkle of chopped parsley, some freshly grated Parmesan cheese, or a few cracks of black pepper to finish off the dish. Serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal.

Bringing the Flavors of Wisconsin to Your Table

This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice embodies the spirit of Wisconsin cuisine, where cheese is always the star. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or just looking for an easy, satisfying meal to wind down your day, this recipe delivers the comfort and flavor you're craving. The combination of tender chicken, creamy rice, and perfectly cooked broccoli, all wrapped in a blanket of melty cheddar, is sure to become a favorite in your household.

So, next time you're searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold Wisconsin evening, give this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice a try. It’s simple, wholesome, and deliciously cheesy—just like Wisconsin itself.

Sources:

• AllRecipes Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
• Taste of Home Crockpot Chicken Recipes
• Midwest Comfort Food: The Best Slow Cooker Recipes