This creamy chicken and rice dish is a cozy meal that comes together quickly. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich sauce, it’s comfort food at its best!
I love how easy it is to whip this up after a long day. Just simmer everything together and let the magic happen. Plus, it tastes even better the next day—if there’s any left! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken breasts give a lean option, while thighs add more flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a lighter meal, you can use turkey instead.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this dish, but you could also use basmati or jasmine rice for a fragrant twist. Brown rice is a nutritious option, though it may need more cooking time and broth.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream creates a rich sauce, but if you prefer lighter options, half-and-half or whole milk can work. For dairy-free, try coconut milk or a cashew cream for a creamy texture.
Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharpness, while mozzarella gives a gooey texture. Feel free to mix them up! For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Just Right?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is key for this creamy dish. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by slicing the chicken into even pieces for consistent cooking.
- When sautéing, cook until just browned—this keeps it juicy. It’s okay if it’s not cooked through yet!
- Let it simmer in the broth with the rice; it will finish cooking as it absorbs moisture and flavors.
This method ensures the chicken stays tender and doesn’t dry out, leading to a comforting meal every time!
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter creaminess)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken and rice recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time, plus around 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have this delicious dinner ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This will give your dish a flavorful base!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Now it’s time to add the chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on the outside, which will take about 4-5 minutes. It’s okay if the chicken is not fully cooked at this point; it will finish cooking later.
3. Add Rice and Broth:
Stir in the rinsed rice, making sure it gets coated in the oil and juices from the chicken. Then pour in the chicken broth and bring it all to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. You want the rice to almost be cooked and for most of the liquid to be absorbed.
4. Stir in the Cream:
After 15 minutes, pour in the heavy cream and gently stir everything to combine. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it on top now. Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This step allows the cheese to melt and the rice to become fully tender, creating that creamy, dreamy consistency.
5. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions to give it a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your delightful creamy chicken and rice as a satisfying, easy dinner! You can serve it with a side salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook. Make sure to add extra broth as needed, since brown rice absorbs more liquid.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk will work. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk or a cashew cream. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or heat in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure they are chopped small enough to cook quickly!
