This creamy chicken and rice dish is a cozy hug in a bowl! Loaded with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, smooth sauce, it’s perfect for busy nights.
I love how easy it is to whip up—just mix, stir, and let it simmer. Plus, it’s a family favorite that always clears my dinner table. Who can resist seconds? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference. I usually pick thighs for their juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey instead.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal for this dish, but brown rice or even quinoa can work too! Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is a great base, but vegetable broth can be a tasty alternative. Homemade broth always adds extra flavor if you have it on hand.
Cheese: While cheddar adds creaminess, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version. Use what you love!
Vegetables: Peas are classic, but you can mix in any frozen or fresh veggies like carrots, corn, or spinach. I often toss in whatever I need to use up from the fridge!
How Do You Ensure the Perfectly Creamy Texture?
Getting that creamy texture just right may take a little attention. Here’s how to do it:
- Sauté onions and garlic until they’re soft, but don’t rush this step. It builds flavor.
- When adding the broth, bring it to a boil before lowering the heat. This helps the rice cook evenly.
- When you add milk or cream, be sure to stir gently so everything combines well. If it starts to look too thick, you can always add a splash more broth or milk.
- If using cheese, stir it in off the heat. This prevents it from clumping and ensures a smooth melt.
With these tips, your creamy chicken and rice will be delicious every time! Don’t hesitate to make it your own with your favorite spices and ingredients.
Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Protein: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Rice: 1 cup long-grain white rice
- Fat: 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Vegetables: 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Broth: 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- Dairy: 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- Cheese (optional): 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for extra creaminess
- Vegetables (optional): 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
- Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste
- Herbs: 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken and rice dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making the total time about 40 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Base Ready:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Let it get hot enough to sizzle but not smoke.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until it turns translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring so it doesn’t burn.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme or Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly browned but not fully cooked through. It will finish cooking later.
4. Incorporate the Rice:
Now, stir in the rice, making sure to coat it well with the oil and chicken juices. This will add extra flavor!
5. Add the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth into the pan and bring everything to a boil. Once it bubbles, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
6. Cream it Up:
After the rice has simmered for 15 minutes, stir in the milk or heavy cream. If you’re adding frozen peas or mixed vegetables, toss them in now, too. Cover the pan again and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the rice is tender, and the chicken is fully cooked.
7. Finish with Cheese:
If you want an extra creamy dish, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese after removing from heat. Let it melt into the mixture for a rich flavor. Yum!
8. Season and Serve:
Taste your dish and add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this comforting meal with your family!
There you have it—a simple, creamy chicken and rice that’s comforting and easy to make. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed. Make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten this dish, you can swap out the heavy cream for low-fat milk or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients. You can also add more vegetables, such as broccoli or spinach, to boost the nutritional content!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to step 8 (before adding cheese) in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed, and then stir in the cheese before serving!
