This Easy Creamy Chicken and Rice Dinner is a warm hug in a bowl! Juicy chicken, tender rice, and a rich, creamy sauce come together to make a comforting meal that everyone loves.
I enjoy how quickly this dish comes together—perfect for busy weeknights. Just mix, simmer, and savor! Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you want a substitute, thighs work well too for extra moisture. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken, just add it later in the cooking process.
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for sautéing, but you can swap it with vegetable or canola oil if preferred. For a flavor boost, try using butter or a mix of butter and oil.
Rice: I use long grain white rice for the best texture. If you want a healthier option, brown rice will work, but adjust the cooking time and add more chicken broth since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy consistency. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, or even almond milk if you’re looking for a non-dairy option.
Seasonings: Thyme is classic, but I often switch it up with rosemary or basil. If you don’t have dried herbs, fresh ones work wonderfully too—just double the amount!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Tender Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but there are a few tips to ensure it comes out tender and juicy. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to create a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the chicken some space to cook properly. If necessary, do it in batches.
- Once golden brown on both sides, let the chicken rest off the heat for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time! Plus, it adds great flavor to your dish.
Easy Creamy Chicken and Rice Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time. You will spend about 10 minutes on preparation and 30 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and easy way to serve up a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Chicken:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes for each side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until they become soft and fragrant. This step brings out the wonderful flavors that will complement your dish!
3. Adding the Rice:
Next, add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir it around to coat it in the oil and onion-garlic mixture. Cook for about 1 minute to toast the rice slightly, which adds extra flavor!
4. Cooking the Rice:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This will allow the rice to cook perfectly.
5. Combining Everything:
After 15 minutes, gently place the browned chicken breasts back on top of the rice. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the chicken and rice, then sprinkle your chosen seasoning (thyme or Italian seasoning) on top. Cover the skillet again and cook on low for another 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is completely tender and the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
6. Adding Vegetables:
If you’re using frozen peas or mixed vegetables, now is the time to stir them in for the last 5 minutes of cooking. This adds a nice pop of color and nutrition to your dish!
7. Finishing Touches:
Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. If you want to add cheddar cheese, sprinkle it on top and cover for a few minutes until melted. This adds a delicious extra layer of creaminess!
8. Serving:
Before serving, garnish your creamy chicken and rice dinner with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. Enjoy your comforting, flavorful meal that’s all made in one pan!
This easy recipe is a great choice for busy nights, letting you enjoy delicious comfort food with minimal cleanup. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Chicken and Rice Dinner
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the cooking time to about 35-40 minutes, and add an additional ½ cup of chicken broth to ensure it cooks properly.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Something Lighter?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. If you want a non-dairy alternative, try coconut milk or almond milk, but the flavor and creaminess will vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken and Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave it gently or warm it on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help restore creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients a day in advance! Cook the chicken, rice, and sauce as instructed, then let it cool completely before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
