Hey there, fellow food lover! Ever have those evenings where you just crave something genuinely comforting? A dish that wraps you in a warm hug and makes the world slow down, even just for a few moments? That’s exactly how I feel about Creamy Chicken and Rice.

It’s more than just a meal; it’s a feeling. Think tender, juicy chicken, lovingly bathed in a rich, velvety sauce, all nestled amongst perfectly cooked, fluffy rice. Every spoonful is a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create something truly magical.

This isn’t just any chicken and rice; this is the ultimate creamy chicken and rice – designed to bring ease and deliciousness to your dinner table. Forget complicated steps or endless dishes; we’re talking about a one-pan wonder that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner when you need something satisfying without all the stress.

Why This Creamy Chicken and Rice Will Become Your Go-To

We’ve all been there – staring into the fridge, wondering what to make, dreading a pile of dishes. That’s where this easy creamy chicken and rice recipe shines!

• Effortless One-Pan Magic: Seriously, most of the cooking happens in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze. More time enjoying your meal, less time scrubbing!
• Irresistibly Creamy: The sauce is the star here – rich, savory, and incredibly smooth. It coats every grain of rice and every piece of chicken, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite. This is the definition of comfort food chicken recipe.
• Family Favorite: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds of this hearty chicken and rice. It’s simple, familiar, and utterly delicious.
• Quick & Convenient: From prep to plate, you’re looking at a meal that’s perfect for those evenings when time is of the essence. A fantastic quick chicken dinner solution!
  
  

Unlocking the Creamy Dream: Tips for Perfection

Getting that perfect creamy texture and perfectly cooked chicken and rice isn’t hard, but a few small tips can make all the difference.

• Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip browning your chicken! That golden-brown crust isn’t just for looks; it locks in moisture and builds incredible depth of flavor for your sauce. A good sear is the secret to tender chicken.
• Rice Ratios Matter: Getting the liquid-to-rice ratio right is crucial for perfectly fluffy rice that isn’t gummy or undercooked. We’ll guide you through it!
• Low and Slow Simmer: Once everything is in the pan, a gentle simmer allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb all those delicious flavors, creating that signature smothered chicken and rice taste.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile! Want to sneak in some veggies? Sauté some sliced mushrooms or bell peppers with the onions. Have leftover chicken? This dish tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal meal prep chicken and rice.

So, if you’re ready to ditch the dinner dilemma and embrace a bowl of pure, creamy bliss, keep scrolling for the full recipe. Get ready to make this Creamy Chicken and Rice your new favorite!

Creamy Chicken and Rice

This easy one-pan dinner features juicy chicken in a rich, creamy sauce, all cooked with fluffy rice. It's a comforting and quick meal perfect for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 People

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts About 1.5 pounds.
• 1 cup rice  Uncooked.
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream  Can be substituted with half-and-half or a non-dairy product.
• 1 medium onion  Diced.
• 3 cloves garlic  Minced.
• 1 cup frozen peas  Optional.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon parsley  Fresh or dried for garnish.

Equipment

• 1 large skillet
• 1 wooden spoon
• 1 measuring cups and spoons
• 1 cooked rice pot
• 1 cutting board
• 1 knife

Method

 

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions using the chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor. Set aside when done.
2. While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Season the chicken breasts with paprika, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Place them in the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the remaining ingredients. Bring to a gentle simmer.
6. If desired, add frozen peas to the cream sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it in the creamy sauce. Allow to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken and blend the flavors.
8. Serve the creamy smothered chicken over the cooked rice, garnished with parsley if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, you can include mushrooms or bell peppers when sautéing the onions.

 

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep.

 

Feel free to substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy product for a lighter option.