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 boneless chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Family Quick Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice, especially when I want a comforting meal without all the fuss. The creamy texture and flavorful chicken always bring a smile to my family's faces after a long day. This dish comes together effortlessly in just one pot, allowing the rice to soak up all the delicious flavors. With minimal prep time and easy clean-up, it's an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or when I’m craving a cozy dinner experience at home.

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-06T17:41:36.351Z

When I first created my version of Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice, my goal was to simplify the cooking process while maximizing flavor. I experimented with using different spices and herbs, and discovered that a mix of thyme and garlic really elevates the dish. It’s become a family favorite because it’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make.

One tip that I’ve found to be essential is allowing the rice to absorb the broth fully before adding the cream. This ensures that each grain is perfectly infused with flavor. I often add frozen peas towards the end; they add a pop of color and sweetness, making the dish even more enjoyable.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
One pot means easy clean-up and minimal effort.
Creaminess that balances perfectly with tender chicken and rice.
Flavorful herbs that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

The Importance of Timing

Timing is crucial for this one-pot dish. When sautéing the chicken, ensure you cook it just long enough to develop a golden brown exterior without fully cooking it through. This usually takes around 5 minutes over medium heat. Undercooking the chicken at this stage maintains juiciness and allows it to finish cooking with the rice, absorbing more flavor as it simmers.

When it comes to the rice, keeping the lid tightly closed during the simmering phase for 20 minutes is essential. This traps steam and ensures even cooking, allowing the rice to absorb the chicken broth completely. If you open the lid too soon for stirring, you risk releasing the steam and ending up with undercooked rice or a sticky consistency.

Customizing Your Dish

Feel free to customize this dish based on your family's preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, swapping the heavy cream for a lighter version such as half-and-half can maintain creaminess while reducing calories. I often add fresh spinach or kale instead of peas, which not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a beautiful green hue and fresh flavor.

If you’re looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika to the chicken during the sautéing step. This small addition can elevate the flavor profile, creating a completely different experience. Just remember to start with a little bit and taste as you go!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup long-grain rice
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup frozen peas
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

Make sure you have everything ready and prepped!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your one pot meal:

Sauté Chicken and Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.

Cook Rice

Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the oil and cook for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Combine and Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and return the chicken to the pot. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Add Cream and Peas

Stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to stir in some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Storing Leftovers

Storing leftovers is simple with this creamy chicken and rice dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out and heat it gently in a pot or microwave.

For longer storage, this dish can also be frozen! Portion the cooling chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers. It’s best used within three months. To reheat, transfer to the refrigerator overnight to thaw, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Just like with fresh, a bit of added liquid helps maintain the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken and rice dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad. The fresh crunch of a green salad contrasts with the creaminess of the dish and adds a refreshing element. For something more indulgent, consider serving it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up any leftover sauce.

For a fun twist, you can also transform this dish into a casserole by transferring the finished mixture into a baking dish, topping it with breadcrumbs or shredded cheese, and baking in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until golden. This method not only adds texture but also creates a comforting, hot meal on chilly evenings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or any dairy-free alternative.

→ Can I prep this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just assemble and cook when ready.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy chicken and rice dish can be served alone or with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.