This creamy chicken and rice dish is a comfort food dream! All you need is chicken, rice, and some cozy seasonings cooked together in one pot for easy cleanup.
You’ll love how it fills the kitchen with a delicious smell! I like to toss in some veggies for a pop of color and goodness. Perfect for busy nights when you want something warm and tasty! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs. I like thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work well too. If you’re in a pinch, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
Olive Oil or Butter: Either works for sautéing the onion. I prefer butter for added creaminess, but the oil keeps it lighter.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds a lovely color and flavor. If you don’t have it, any sweet pepper or even frozen mixed veggies can do the trick!
Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: I love using heavy cream for richness, but half-and-half works too if you’re looking to cut calories. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk is a nice substitute.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is the go-to here. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use brown rice, but it will need more liquid and a longer cooking time.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right is key to this dish! Here’s how to make sure it’s juicy and tender:
- Cut the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces so they cook uniformly.
- Sear the chicken in the pan until lightly browned, as this adds flavor. Don’t worry about cooking it through at this point.
- Allow it to simmer with the rice until fully cooked. The rice absorbs the flavor while the chicken continues cooking.
Using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Also, letting it rest for a few minutes after cooking keeps the juices in!
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice One-Pot Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken and rice dish will take about 10 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend the first few minutes chopping and sautéing, and then let everything simmer together. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Then, stir in the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper; let them cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant and colorful!
2. Brown the Chicken:
Next, toss in the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and thyme (or Italian seasoning). Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned on all sides. It’s okay if it’s not fully cooked at this stage; it will finish cooking later with the rice.
3. Add the Rice and Broth:
Once the chicken is browned, pour in the rinsed rice and stir well to coat it with the spices and oil. This adds flavor to the rice! Then, carefully add the chicken broth, stirring to combine everything. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer it Down:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the broth and cook until it’s tender.
5. Make it Creamy:
After the rice is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, it’s time to make it creamy! Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir gently to combine. Let this simmer uncovered for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed for your liking. A little more paprika or herbs can also add a nice touch!
7. Serve Up and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your creamy chicken and rice with freshly chopped parsley for that burst of color and flavor. Serve it immediately, and consider pairing it with a light side like steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal!
Enjoy your cozy and comforting creamy chicken and rice one-pot dinner!
FAQ About Creamy Chicken and Rice One-Pot Dinner
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just remember that brown rice takes longer to cook and will require about 30-35 minutes of simmering. Also, increase the broth to about 3 cups to ensure it cooks properly.
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 a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Just keep in mind that using milk 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, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables such as peas, carrots, or even spinach. Add them after the chicken is browned to allow them to cook while the rice simmers but adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the vegetables’ cooking needs.
