If you’ve ever dreamed of a comforting, flavorful, and effortlessly satisfying meal, this One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken pieces melding perfectly with creamy, cheesy rice all cooked in a single pot, making dinner both quick and cleanup a breeze. The magic of this dish lies in its harmonious blend of simple ingredients, hearty textures, and rich flavors—that warm hug on a plate that your family and friends will rave about every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is a straightforward task, and each plays a vital role in building its delicious flavor profile and luscious texture. From the juicy chicken to the creamy parmesan finish, here’s what you’ll want on hand before you start cooking.
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced): The star protein that becomes juicy and tender as it cooks with the rice.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: For creating that perfect sear on the chicken and releasing savory flavors from garlic.
- 3 cloves minced garlic: Adds a fragrant, slightly sweet aroma that enhances every bite.
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning (divided): Provides a balanced herbaceous seasoning that ties the dish together.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Gives a subtle onion flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors perfectly.
- 2½ cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that cooks the rice and infuses the dish with depth.
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: The base that soaks up all the luscious creaminess.
- ¾ cup heavy cream: Adds the rich, velvety texture that makes this dish so irresistible.
- â…“ cup grated parmesan cheese: Introduces a sharp, nutty kick that perfectly complements the cream.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, which allows for even cooking and easy eating. Season these morsels with one teaspoon of Italian seasoning so they develop that delightful herb flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces and cook until they are beautifully browned on the outside, about five minutes. This step locks in the juices, delivering tender bites later. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside—don’t worry, it will come back to the party soon.
Step 3: Cook the Garlic and Rice
Into the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, letting it release its aromatic goodness without burning. Then stir in the chicken broth and uncooked rice. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the flavorful liquid and cook perfectly tender.
Step 4: Finish with Cream, Cheese, and Seasonings
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, giving the dish its signature creamy, cheesy texture. Add the browned chicken back into the skillet along with the remaining Italian seasoning and onion powder. Stir everything together, then adjust salt and pepper to taste. Now you have a mouthwatering dish that’s ready to enjoy!
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy richness on the plate. If you want some heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes works wonders—just the right kick without overpowering the flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. Their crunch and freshness cut through the creamy texture, making every bite exciting and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve this One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe in shallow bowls garnished with parmesan shards and a drizzle of good olive oil. Or, turn it into a stuffed pepper filling for a fun, family-friendly twist everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover creamy chicken and rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to preserve freshness and texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing because of the cream, but it will still taste delicious after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the rice. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each until heated through to maintain creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can swap in brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly to make sure the rice cooks through and stays creamy.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and swap parmesan for a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. You’ll maintain the creamy texture with a slightly different but just as tasty flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and they often remain moister and more flavorful during cooking, adding richness to the dish.
What can I add for extra veggies?
Feel free to toss in peas, spinach, or diced bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking to add color and nutrition without changing the recipe much.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly after assembled?
Yes, you can freeze the entire dish after preparing, but the texture of the cream and cheese may change slightly. Reheat slowly to help retain as much of the original flavor and creaminess as possible.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe has quickly become my go-to for busy weeknights when I want something hearty and comforting without the fuss. Its simplicity, combined with indulgent creaminess and robust flavor, will make it a favorite for yours too. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how a handful of simple ingredients can turn into a stunning, soul-satisfying meal made all in one pot.
Print
One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This comforting one-pot chicken and rice recipe combines tender, browned chicken breasts with creamy parmesan-infused rice cooked in flavorful chicken broth and seasoned with Italian herbs. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick and hearty weeknight dinner with minimal clean-up.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (divided from 1 Tbsp)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Base
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp onion powder
Rice and Sauce
- 2½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- â…“ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Remaining 2 tsp Italian seasoning (from 1 Tbsp total)
Instructions
- Prepare chicken: Using a sharp knife, cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Brown chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring to prevent burning.
- Cook rice: Stir in 2½ cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of uncooked long-grain white rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add cream and cheese: Once the rice is cooked, stir in ¾ cup heavy cream and ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Combine chicken and season: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the remaining 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning and ½ teaspoon onion powder. Stir everything together well and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor, but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Long-grain white rice cooks best for a fluffy texture, but jasmine rice can be used as a fragrant alternative.
- Ensure the skillet used has a tight-fitting lid to keep steam in while simmering the rice.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger groups, but adjust liquid and cooking times accordingly.
