Creamy One Pot Chicken Rice

Name: Creamy One Pot Chicken Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, diced; 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Family Quick Meals Ideas

I love making this Creamy One Pot Chicken Rice because it's not only effortless, but it also delivers on flavor in every bite. The convenience of cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup, and the rich, creamy texture makes it a favorite for my family. I enjoy customizing this dish with everything from fresh herbs to seasonal veggies, which truly enhances the overall experience. Plus, the aroma that fills my kitchen while it simmers is simply irresistible and brings everyone together at the dinner table.

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-06T18:11:36.571Z

When I first tried making Creamy One Pot Chicken Rice, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it turned out. The key to achieving that creamy consistency is in the amount of broth you use—you want just enough to infuse the rice while keeping it moist. I also discovered that using thigh meat instead of breast makes a huge difference in tenderness and flavor, which is something I'll never overlook again!

One evening, I realized I was out of heavy cream but still wanted that rich essence, so I substituted with Greek yogurt, and it worked wonders! This little tip has since become a staple in my cooking. Each time I serve this dish, it never fails to impress with its creaminess, and my family always asks for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and rich flavor that satisfies
Effortless one-pot cooking for easy cleanup
Perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals

Cooking Techniques for Creamy Perfection

The key to achieving that rich, creamy texture lies in the balance between the heavy cream and chicken broth. Using a high-quality chicken broth enhances the flavor profile of the dish. If you’re looking to cut down on calories, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or a lower-fat creamer. Just be mindful that this may slightly alter the creaminess of the final dish, so adjust the seasoning to maintain flavor.

It's essential to sauté the chicken until it's just golden on the outside but not fully cooked through; this helps to keep it tender during the simmering process. Browning adds a depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction, which is what gives the dish that luscious taste. If you find your chicken browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low and allow it to cook more slowly, achieving that perfect golden color without overcooking.

Customizing Your Chicken Rice

One of the beauties of this one-pot chicken rice recipe is its versatility. Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini during the simmering step to enhance nutrition and flavor. For a delightful twist, you can also incorporate a splash of lemon juice just before serving; it brightens up the dish beautifully without overpowering it. I often add a handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra creamy finish, which blends in beautifully when stirred.

If you're a fan of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the aromatics. This brings an exciting heat that complements the creaminess of the dish. Additionally, swapping out jasmine rice for brown rice will require a bit more liquid and a longer cooking time, so adjust by using 2.5 cups of chicken broth and simmering for about 30 minutes for that lovely al dente texture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb boneless chicken thighs, diced
1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken thighs, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot. Stir in the rinsed jasmine rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, and peas. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like rosemary or basil. Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or vegetables to make it more versatile.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy chicken rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore its luscious consistency. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can result in uneven heating and a rubbery texture in the chicken pieces.

For longer storage, consider freezing any leftovers. Portion the dish into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming on the stove, adding a bit of liquid to ensure creaminess returns. Freezing might slightly alter the texture, but the flavor remains delicious!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy chicken rice as a standalone dish, or pair it with a vibrant side salad for a more balanced meal. A fresh arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish and adds a nice crunch. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the leftover sauce, making every bite enjoyable.

If you're hosting a dinner party, consider serving this dish family-style right in the pot for a cozy, inviting presentation. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and flavor right before serving. Your guests will surely be impressed with the dish’s beautiful presentation, and everyone will appreciate how easy it is to share and enjoy together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid used.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day in advance and reheat it on the stove or in a microwave.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter option, though the texture will be slightly different.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Just ensure you cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.