Learned this from my Italian mama, and it is a huge hit with our family!

In the heartland, where the soil is fertile and hearty meals are cherished, there’s a beloved tradition of slow cooking that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Italian Chicken & Rice, crafted in the slow cooker, harkens back to simpler times yet remains a staple in modern kitchens. This dish wonderfully melds the bold flavors of Italian cuisine with the hearty comfort of rice, possibly reflecting the rich tapestry of immigrant stories woven through America’s heartland. It’s the perfect recipe for busy days when you crave a nourishing, home-cooked meal to conclude your day.

Pair this Slow Cooker Italian Chicken & Rice with a fresh green salad drizzled in balsamic vinaigrette, or complement it with some warm garlic bread or buttery, garlic-sautéed green beans for a more filling meal.

Slow Cooker Italian Chicken & Rice Recipe

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup instant rice

1 onion, diced3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

1 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

Place chicken breasts at the slow cooker’s base.

Evenly spread uncooked rice over the chicken.

Mix diced onion, garlic, diced tomatoes with juice, tomato sauce, chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Pour this tomato mixture over the chicken and rice, ensuring even distribution.

Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

Just before serving, top with grated Parmesan.

Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.

Variations & Tips:

Add a cup of frozen peas 30 minutes before cooking ends for extra texture.

Include red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.

Substitute white rice with brown rice for more fiber, adjusting cooking time as needed.

Use dried minced onion and garlic powder for convenience on busy days.

This recipe is like a lovingly made quilt—simple ingredients, when combined with care, create a comforting experience that resonates with the soul. Share it with your loved ones and let it warm you from the inside out.

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