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