This creamy chicken and rice dish is warm and comforting. It combines tender chicken with fluffy rice in a luscious sauce, making dinner a breeze!
I love how quickly it comes together—perfect for those busy evenings. Plus, who can resist the creamy goodness that makes every bite so satisfying? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are popular here, but I often use thighs for extra moisture. If you want to go meatless, add mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty option.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best due to its fluffy texture. You can substitute with brown rice; just adjust the cooking time since it takes longer to cook and absorb liquid.
Heavy cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even evaporated milk. Unsweetened almond or coconut milk can also work if you need a dairy-free option—just keep the flavor in mind.
Seasonings: Dried thyme is great, but you can swap it for rosemary, sage, or herbs de Provence to mix things up a bit.
How Do You Make the Rice Creamy?
The key to achieving that creamy texture is the right amount of liquid and cooking time. Following these steps helps create the perfect consistency:
- After adding chicken broth, bring it to a boil and then lower the heat promptly to avoid boiling away the liquid.
- Cover the skillet tightly while the rice simmers to trap steam, which helps cook the rice evenly.
- When mixing in cream and cheese, stir well so everything melds together nicely. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
With these tips, you’re set for a delicious creamy chicken and rice dinner!
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the 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 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish – optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken and rice dish takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep work and 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Season them with salt and pepper, and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Cooking the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Let it cook for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently until it’s fragrant but not burnt.
3. Preparing the Rice:
Next, stir in the rinsed rice and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes. This will lightly toast the rice and enhance its flavor. After that, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Combining Ingredients:
After 15 minutes, carefully remove the lid and stir in the previously cooked chicken, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried thyme (or Italian seasoning). Mix everything well, cover again, and let it cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the rice is tender and the sauce looks creamy.
5. Finishing Touches:
Taste your delicious creamy chicken and rice, adding more salt and pepper if you like. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice—it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best, you can also use bone-in pieces with skin. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as bone-in pieces may take longer to cook thoroughly.
Can I Substitute Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require more cooking time and liquid. Use about 3 cups of broth and simmer for approximately 25-30 minutes instead of 15 minutes to ensure the rice is tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding cream and cheese. Refrigerate it and then finish cooking when you’re ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to heat it through!
