Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup uncooked rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love preparing Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice because it combines comfort food with effortless cooking. In just one pot, the flavors of tender chicken, rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice all meld together, making dinner time a breeze. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite, especially on busy weeknights. The best part is that you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Trust me, this dish will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings!

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:13:35.978Z

When I first tried making Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice, I was immediately captivated by how all the flavors intertwine in such a short time. Using a single pot means less cleanup, and the method allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully together. I typically add garlic and onions first, which enhances the overall depth of flavor.

One of my favorite tips is to let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking. This resting period really allows the rice to absorb the creamy sauce fully, resulting in a dish that’s rich and satisfying. I often pair this dish with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Packed with flavor thanks to the combination of spices and fresh ingredients
Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep for the week ahead

      

Ingredient Insights

The chicken breast is the star of this dish, providing lean protein that cooks quickly and tenderly in the creamy sauce. For a richer flavor, consider using chicken thighs instead. They have more fat, which enhances the overall creaminess and adds depth to the dish. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative, which will still produce a creamy texture without the added calories.

Rice is a key player here as it absorbs the flavors from the chicken and broth. I recommend long-grain white rice for this recipe, as it cooks evenly and results in a fluffy texture. If you want a heartier meal, you can substitute with brown rice, but be aware that it will require a longer cooking time—about 40-45 minutes—so adjust your liquid accordingly.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the chicken until golden brown not only adds flavor through the Maillard reaction but also seals in the juices, keeping the meat tender. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot during subsequent steps, as these will enhance the depth of flavor in your creamy sauce.

When adding the uncooked rice to the broth, stir it thoroughly to prevent clumping. Once everything is simmering, let it be—avoid stirring too much as it can release too much starch, making the rice gummy. Instead, keep an eye on it and give it a gentle stir after about 10 minutes to check on the progress.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect one-pot meal:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup uncooked rice
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup frozen peas
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to align all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smoother cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to cook this delicious dish:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, and dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Combine Chicken and Cream

Return the chicken to the pot, add the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer until the rice is cooked, about 20 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the frozen peas and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Serve warm and enjoy the creamy goodness of this dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs before cooking. You can also substitute brown rice for a healthier option, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice is ideal for meal prep. You can cook it completely in advance, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat portions in the microwave or a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore its creamy texture. Avoid reheating it on high heat, as this can cause the sauce to separate.

For an even quicker assembly on busy nights, consider chopping your vegetables and chicken ahead of time. You can store them in the refrigerator, ready to toss directly into the pot when you're ready to cook. This setup allows you to put dinner on the table faster without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your presentation, serve the finished dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. The brightness of the lemon enhances the creamy flavors and adds a burst of freshness to each bite. Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce, making for a well-rounded meal.

For those who enjoy a touch of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper before serving. If you're a fan of herbs, a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary can bring an earthy note that complements the dish perfectly. You can also experiment with adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to increase the cooking time and possibly add more liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure your rice is certified gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prep everything in advance and merely combine and cook it when you're ready to eat.

→ What vegetables can I add to this dish?

You can add bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus for extra nutrition and color.