Creamy Chicken and Rice

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes compare to the creamy, savory goodness of chicken and rice. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or looking for a warm and satisfying weeknight dinner, this One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe checks all the boxes: it’s quick, delicious, and only requires one pan for minimal cleanup.

Packed with tender chicken, fluffy long-grain rice, a rich creamy sauce, and bursts of color from peas and carrots, this dish will easily become a go-to in your weekly meal rotation.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to master this foolproof recipe, from key ingredients to expert cooking tips.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this dish, but here are the top ones:

• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes means less stress in the kitchen.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just under 45 minutes.

• Family-Friendly: Mild, creamy, and comforting — even picky eaters enjoy it.

• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and affordable ingredients.

• Customizable: Add more veggies, use brown rice, or swap in different proteins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious creamy chicken and rice recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter – for rich flavor and sautéing.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – to prevent the butter from burning.

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced – tender protein that cooks quickly.

• Salt and pepper, to taste – basic seasoning for the chicken and base.

• 1 small onion, finely diced – adds sweetness and depth.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic and savory.

• 1 cup long-grain white rice – absorbs all the flavors beautifully.

• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth – the base for cooking the rice and building flavor.

• 1 cup heavy cream – adds luscious creaminess.

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots – color and crunch.

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – salty, nutty finish.

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika – a gentle smoky note.

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – fresh and bright garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  Step 1: Sear the Chicken

1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper.

3. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

  Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. In the same pan, add the finely diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.

2. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

  Step 3: Toast the Rice

1. Add the long-grain white rice to the pan.

2. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly and absorb the flavors.

  Step 4: Simmer the Rice

1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15–18 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.

  Step 5: Make It Creamy

1. Stir in the heavy cream, peas and carrots, Parmesan cheese, and paprika.

2. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir to combine.

3. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for another 5–7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

  Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

2. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Cooking Tips for Success

  Use Long-Grain Rice

Shorter grains or quick-cooking rice may become mushy. Stick to long-grain white rice for the best texture.

  Sear the Chicken Properly

Searing locks in moisture and adds flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan — work in batches if necessary.

  Let It Rest

Allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce time to settle and the flavors to meld.

Variations to Try

  Make It Spicy

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.

  Swap the Protein

Try diced turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a different twist.

  Add More Vegetables

Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers make great additions.

  Make It Cheesy

Add a handful of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for an even richer dish.

Storage and Reheating

  How to Store

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: This dish freezes well. Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

  How to Reheat

• Microwave: Reheat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan with a splash of broth or cream to revive the creamy texture.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 460

• Protein: 28g

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Fat: 24g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 540mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients used.

Why This Recipe Is Great for Weeknights

  Quick Cleanup

One pan means fewer dishes to wash, making your evening smoother and more relaxing.

  Easy Prep

Simple chopping and straightforward cooking steps ensure that this dish is accessible for beginners and busy home cooks alike.

  Crowd-Pleasing

This recipe brings everyone to the table — kids, adults, and guests alike will love its creamy texture and comforting flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

Looking to build a complete meal? Here are some ideas to serve alongside your creamy chicken and rice:

  Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread

• Steamed Green Beans

• Mixed Green Salad

• Roasted Broccoli

  Drinks

• Chilled Iced Tea

• Sparkling Water with Lemon

• A Crisp White Wine (for adults)

FAQs About Creamy Chicken and Rice

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Just shred and add it during the final mixing step.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be less rich. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or evaporated milk.

What’s the best way to keep the rice from getting mushy?

Avoid overcooking. Make sure you simmer with the lid on until the rice is tender but not overly soft.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you ensure your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts: A Cozy, Creamy Classic Worth Making Again

Whether it’s a rainy day, a busy weeknight, or you simply need something warm and comforting, this One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe is the perfect solution. With tender chicken, rich creaminess, and the wholesome texture of rice and veggies, it’s a dish that satisfies on every level.

And best of all, it only takes one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your kitchen for years to come.

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