This Easy Creamy Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that brings a warm hug to your dinner table! With tender chicken pieces and fluffy rice simmered in a rich sauce, it’s super satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless thighs for juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken breasts will work just as well. You can also substitute it with cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Rice: Long-grain white rice gives the best texture here. If you’re out, jasmine or basmati rice works too. For a healthy twist, try brown rice or quinoa, but remember they may need longer cooking times.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the dish. You can use half-and-half or even coconut milk if you want a dairy-free option. For reduced fat, consider using evaporated milk.
Cheese: Cheddar is fantastic for topping. Feel free to swap it for mozzarella or even a dairy-free cheese if needed. A sprinkle of Parmesan can also add a delightful flavor.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken just right is important to avoid dryness. Start with medium-high heat to get that nice brown color. Brown the pieces for about 4-5 minutes but don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked; they’ll finish cooking with the rice.
- Ensure to season well with salt, pepper, and herbs early for flavor.
- Remove chicken from the pan once it’s golden brown, then add it back later to finish cooking with the rice.
Easy Creamy Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth (or stock)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a comforting and creamy chicken and rice dish ready to delight your family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. It’s okay if it’s not fully cooked through; just remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is soft and translucent. This will add lovely flavor to the dish!
3. Add Rice and Broth:
Stir the rinsed rice into the pot, making sure it’s coated with the oil and flavors from the onion and garlic. Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil!
4. Simmer it All Together:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, return the chicken to the pot, and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t boil over!
5. Creamy Finish:
After the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream. Taste and add more salt and pepper if you like. Cook uncovered for another 2-3 minutes to let it thicken slightly and get creamy.
6. Cheese It Up!
If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it over the top now and cover the pot for a couple of minutes to let it melt into gooey goodness!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or chives to add color and freshness. Now scoop some onto your plate and enjoy this creamy, hearty dish!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind it will require longer cooking time—about 40-45 minutes instead of 15-20 minutes. You may also need to increase the amount of chicken broth to ensure it’s fully cooked and remains creamy!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to help bring back the creamy consistency.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just ensure you adjust the seasoning as coconut milk can add its own flavor.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to add vegetables for extra nutrition! Peas, spinach, or bell peppers work great. Just add them during the last few minutes of cooking to keep them fresh and vibrant.