There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of creamy chicken and rice. This classic dish brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a velvety sauce that’s both rich and satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl—perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family dinners. I first made this when I had leftover chicken and a craving for something hearty, and it quickly became a weeknight favorite. The best part? It’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Whether you serve it as a standalone meal or with a side of vegetables, creamy chicken and rice never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the best of comfort food with the ease of a one-pot meal. It’s rich, flavorful, and can be prepared with pantry staples. The creamy sauce binds everything together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both wholesome and indulgent. You’ll love how easy it is to adapt with your favorite herbs, vegetables, or even a splash of cream for extra richness.
Creamy Chicken & Rice – A Delicious Duo for a Cozy Meal
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Creamy Chicken & Rice is a comforting, one-pot meal made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s warm, filling, and perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep — simple to make yet full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp thyme or Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onion until soft, about 2 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in uncooked rice and toast for 1 minute to coat in the flavors.
- Pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in cooked chicken, heavy cream (if using), Parmesan cheese, and peas and carrots. Mix well until creamy and heated through.
- Adjust seasoning if needed, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Substitute brown rice, but increase liquid and cooking time.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk or broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs offer more flavor and stay juicy during cooking, but breasts are a leaner option.
Rice: Long-grain white rice gives the best texture—it becomes fluffy and tender while soaking up the creamy sauce. I’ve also tried jasmine rice for a slightly fragrant twist, and it worked beautifully.
Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
Garlic and Onion: Freshly chopped garlic and onion provide a savory foundation and enhance the overall aroma.
Chicken Broth: Infuses the rice with flavor as it cooks, giving the dish depth and richness.
Cream: Heavy cream or half-and-half gives the dish its signature creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can use evaporated milk or almond milk—it still tastes delicious.
Cheese: Parmesan or cheddar cheese adds a subtle sharpness that balances the creaminess.
Carrots and Peas: Classic vegetables that add color, sweetness, and a bit of crunch.
Salt, Black Pepper, and Paprika: Basic seasonings that bring everything together. A pinch of paprika adds warmth and color.
Fresh Parsley: For garnish and a hint of freshness that brightens the creamy flavors.
Directions
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden on both sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Stir in the rice and toast it for a minute to enhance its flavor. Pour in the chicken broth, then return the chicken to the pan. Cover and simmer until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed. Reduce the heat and stir in the cream, cheese, and vegetables. Mix gently until the sauce becomes thick and silky. Adjust seasoning to taste and let it simmer for a few more minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
- large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
- Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
- Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
- Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
- knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
- Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves four people generously. Preparation takes around 10 minutes, while cooking time is about 30–35 minutes. Total time: approximately 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the rice.
Variations and Customizations
Mushroom Lovers: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, hearty twist.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
Spicy Touch: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for gentle heat.
Herb Infusion: Try thyme, rosemary, or basil for aromatic depth.
Vegetable Boost: Include spinach, broccoli, or corn to make it more nutritious.
Lemon Zest: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or zest for a fresh, tangy flavor.
Coconut Cream Twist: Substitute dairy cream with coconut cream for a tropical variation.
Garlic Butter Upgrade: Mix a little garlic butter into the sauce for a richer taste.
One-Pot Oven Bake: Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and bake with a cheesy topping.
Leftover Magic: Use leftover roast chicken or turkey for a quick, easy version.
FAQs
What type of rice works best for creamy chicken and rice?
Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice provides the best texture and flavor.
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but it will require more liquid and a longer cooking time.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare it in advance and reheat gently before serving.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s a great time-saver. Just add it during the final step.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Use olive oil instead of butter and coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream.
What vegetables can I add?
Peas, carrots, spinach, or broccoli all work wonderfully.
Can I freeze creamy chicken and rice?
Yes, let it cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
How do I keep the rice from turning mushy?
Use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid over-stirring during cooking.
What cheese works best?
Parmesan, cheddar, or mozzarella melt beautifully and add depth.
Can I make this spicier?
Yes, add red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Conclusion
Creamy chicken and rice is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and full of flavor. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice, it’s a dish that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this recipe brings warmth and coziness to the table. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
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