If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up on a busy night, look no further than Creamy Chicken and Rice. This dish is a cozy one-pot wonder, brimming with tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, sweet vegetables, and a luxurious sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you’re feeding your family or looking for something to meal prep for the week, Creamy Chicken and Rice brings together simple ingredients for a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep in heavy rotation!

Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about Creamy Chicken and Rice is how it calls for kitchen staples you probably already have. Each ingredient works its magic to create layers of flavor, color, and that irresistible creamy texture we all crave. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken for extra flavor.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender, protein-packed bites that soak up all the creamy goodness.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything to life.
Onion: Delivers a hint of sweetness and depth to the base.
Garlic: Gives that unmistakable aroma and punchy flavor.
Carrots: Add color, natural sweetness, and a subtle crunch.
Celery: Balances the carrots and brings a fresh, earthy note.
Long-grain white rice: The backbone of the dish, soaking up all those luscious flavors.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory depth while keeping things light.
Milk: Contributes creaminess without making it too heavy.
Heavy cream: The secret to ultra-silky, luxurious sauce—feel free to swap for half-and-half if you’d like.
Dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Paprika: Brings gentle warmth and a pop of color.
Frozen peas: Stirred in at the end for vibrant color and sweet flavor.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for nutty, salty richness.
Fresh parsley: Brightens up the dish right before serving.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in your biggest skillet or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot oil. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns golden and is cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, transfer those beautiful pieces to a plate and set aside. This step locks in all those savory juices and builds the first layer of flavor for your Creamy Chicken and Rice.

Step 2: Soften the Veggies

Without cleaning the pan, toss in the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Let them cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until they’re soft and fragrant. The veggies soak up all the flavorful bits left from the chicken, creating a savory foundation for the dish.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Now, stir in the rinsed long-grain white rice. Give it about a minute in the pan with the veggies, just enough to toast it lightly. This step adds a subtle nutty note and ensures the rice will cook up fluffy and separate—not mushy.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

Pour in the chicken broth, milk, heavy cream, thyme, and paprika. Give everything a good stir, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. As soon as it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes. The rice will absorb the flavorful liquid, and the sauce will start to thicken into that signature creamy texture.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Uncover your pot and add back the cooked chicken, along with the frozen peas, grated Parmesan, and fresh parsley. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the peas are heated through and the cheese has melted into the sauce. Give it a final taste for seasoning, then scoop generous portions into bowls. Your Creamy Chicken and Rice is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan on top make Creamy Chicken and Rice look as inviting as it tastes. For a pop of color and a hint of zing, try a squeeze of lemon or a dash of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, a crisp green salad or some steamed green beans are perfect companions. Crusty bread is always welcome for mopping up every bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn Creamy Chicken and Rice into a showstopper by serving it in individual ramekins or scooping it into roasted bell pepper halves. You can even ladle it into hollowed-out bread bowls for an extra-cozy, dinner-party-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Creamy Chicken and Rice cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or a no-fuss dinner later in the week.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well! Spoon portions into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. Creamy Chicken and Rice can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, pop individual servings in the microwave or gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. If it seems a bit thick, stir in a splash of milk or broth to bring back that signature creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a fantastic swap for chicken breasts in Creamy Chicken and Rice. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook as directed.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and check that your Parmesan cheese is safe. Double-check any packaged ingredients if you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

What vegetables can I add or substitute?

Feel free to get creative! Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers all work beautifully in Creamy Chicken and Rice. Just add them along with the carrots and celery to soften and blend their flavors seamlessly into the dish.

Can I make Creamy Chicken and Rice dairy-free?

You can, with a few swaps! Use unsweetened plant-based milk and a dairy-free cream alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use your favorite dairy-free cheese. The result will still be creamy and delicious.

How do I prevent the rice from turning mushy?

Be sure to use long-grain white rice, rinse it before cooking, and simmer gently with the lid on. Avoid overcooking, and remove from heat as soon as the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Creamy Chicken and Rice a try soon—there’s a reason it’s become a staple in my kitchen! It’s easy, endlessly comforting, and always a hit with family and friends. Don’t be surprised if this quickly becomes your new go-to dish for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a little extra coziness.

Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 10 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This creamy chicken and rice recipe is a comforting one-pot meal featuring tender chicken pieces simmered with rice, fresh vegetables, and a rich, velvety sauce made from milk, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients to deliver deep flavors and satisfying texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables

1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 cup frozen peas

Rice and Liquids

1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream

Seasonings and Cheese

1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Sauté the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Add and Toast Rice: Stir the rinsed rice into the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, allowing the rice to toast slightly and absorb flavors.
Simmer with Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Then add dried thyme and paprika, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Combine Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the cooked chicken pieces, frozen peas, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through, creamy, and well incorporated.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve the creamy chicken and rice warm for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Notes

To make a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with extra milk or half-and-half.
For extra flavor and vegetables, add mushrooms or spinach along with the other vegetables during sautéing.
For a gluten-free option, ensure chicken broth is labeled gluten-free.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently adding a splash of milk if needed.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American