This creamy chicken and rice dinner is a warm hug on a plate! Packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich sauce, it’s comfort food at its best.
I love how quickly it comes together! Just throw everything in one pot, and let it simmer. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something tasty without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs depending on your preference. I lean towards thighs for their tenderness and flavor. If you want a lighter option, try turkey breast instead!
Olive Oil or Butter: Olive oil adds a nice richness, while butter brings a lovely flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier fat, consider using avocado oil. Coconut oil also works well for a different flavor.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal for this dish because it cooks nicely and holds its shape. If you prefer brown rice, just note it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid!
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking to cut calories, half-and-half or whole milk can replace heavy cream. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or cashew cream.
How Do You Get Your Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the chicken perfectly is crucial to this dish’s success! Here’s how to ensure it stays juicy:
- Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it makes steaming more likely than browning.
- Brown the chicken lightly for flavor, but don’t worry about cooking it all the way. It will finish cooking as the rice simmers.
This method keeps your chicken succulent while adding depth to the overall flavor. Trust me, you’ll notice the difference!
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken and rice dinner takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes of cooking time. So, in about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them together for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Next, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (or Italian seasoning). Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked. Don’t worry; it will cook through with the rice!
3. Add the Rice:
Stir in the rinsed rice, mixing it well with the chicken, onion, and garlic. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to give the rice a little toast and absorb some flavors. It enhances the dish’s deliciousness!
4. Simmer with Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Allow it to simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
After the rice has cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed!
6. Let it Rest:
Remove the pan from heat and let the dish rest covered for a few minutes. This helps it thicken up even more and makes it extra creamy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy chicken and rice dinner with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely touch. Serve it warm with your favorite steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely first for even cooking. The safest way to do this is to place the chicken in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can thaw it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Meal Prep This Dish?
Absolutely! You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. For best results, prepare the chicken and rice but add the cream and cheese only when reheating to keep the sauce creamy and fresh.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk or cashew cream work well to maintain the creamy texture without the dairy!
