This Easy Creamy Chicken and Rice dish is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s filled with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich cream sauce that makes it super comforting and satisfying.
Cooking this meal is a breeze. Just toss everything in one pot, let it simmer, and voilà! I love to top it with a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color—it’s dinner made simple and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey. Additionally, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver!
Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal because it cooks evenly. You can substitute it with basmati or jasmine rice for different flavors. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use brown rice but increase the liquid and cooking time.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, half-and-half is a good swap. You can also use whole milk or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, but that might alter the creaminess of the dish.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a nice flavor, but feel free to experiment! Parmesan or mozzarella would be great alternatives. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How to Perfectly Cook the Chicken?
Cooking the chicken evenly gives your dish a great texture. First, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this helps to sear the meat quickly and lock in juices.
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before adding it back in. This keeps it juicy!
Why is Sautéing the Onion and Garlic Important?
Sautéing the onion and garlic adds a depth of flavor to your dish. Cooking them until soft releases their natural sweetness and aroma.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning them—patience is key!
- Don’t skip the garlic; it enhances the overall taste beautifully.
Enjoy making this creamy chicken and rice dish with these tips for success!
Easy Creamy Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
For Creaminess:
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, totaling approximately 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious option for a comforting weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Chicken:
Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion. Cook until the onion is softened, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This combination will create a flavorful base for your dish!
3. Add Rice and Seasoning:
Now, stir in the uncooked rice along with the dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Make sure to coat the rice well in the onion and garlic mixture. This helps to infuse the rice with delicious flavor as it cooks!
4. Cook the Rice:
Next, pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan!
5. Stir in the Creaminess:
After the rice is cooked, add the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese (if you’re using it) to the skillet. Then, return the cooked chicken to the skillet as well. Mix everything together well and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through and creamy.
6. Final Touches:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting chicken and rice! It’s warming, delicious, and perfect for a cozy meal at home.
FAQ for Easy Creamy Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! However, since brown rice takes longer to cook, you’ll need to increase the cooking time to about 35-40 minutes. Also, add an extra half cup of chicken broth to ensure it cooks through properly.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream or almond milk. You can also skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the rice and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic for a few minutes before adding the rice!
