This creamy chicken and rice dish is all about comfort! With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, dreamy sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy meal at home.
Honestly, it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. I love having leftovers for lunch, but let’s be real, I usually finish it all! 😄 It’s super easy to make—just cook, mix, and enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra moisture, but breasts work well too. If you’re looking for something lighter, feel free to use turkey!
Rice: Long grain white rice is the go-to, but you can substitute with jasmine or basmati rice for a different flavor and aroma. Brown rice is an option, but remember, it will require more liquid and cooking time.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives this dish its rich texture, but if you want a lighter version, half-and-half or even coconut milk can be used. For a dairy-free option, opt for almond or oat cream.
Cheese: While cheddar adds great creaminess, you can use any cheese you enjoy, like mozzarella or gouda. Nutritional yeast is a tasty option for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but following these steps will help you nail it every time. We want juicy, perfectly cooked chicken, not dry! Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Cook in batches if your pan is crowded, as this helps it brown better.
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the outside, which keeps the juices locked in.
- Check for doneness by cutting into a piece to ensure it’s no longer pink inside, or use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
Letting the chicken rest for a minute off the heat helps redistribute those tasty juices! Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice! 🍚🍗
Easy Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken and rice recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 40 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner after a long day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook until the chicken is nicely browned on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Toast the Rice:
Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir well to coat it with the oil and onion mixture. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor before moving on to the next step.
4. Cook the Rice:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Make it Creamy:
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and cheese (if using) until everything is melted and creamy. Then, return the chicken to the pan, mix it all together, and heat for another 3-5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is coated nicely.
6. Final Touches:
Give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning with any extra salt and pepper if needed. This is your moment to make it just right!
7. Serve:
Garnish your delicious creamy chicken and rice with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting dish!
This recipe is great for a quick weeknight dinner and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Happy cooking! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely first to ensure even cooking. Thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before cutting it up for the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just bear in mind that using a thinner liquid may result in a less creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back some moisture.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers is a great way to boost nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in when you add the rice, cooking them along with the rice and broth until they’re tender.
