Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warm Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice dish on busy weeknights. It's quick, comforting, and packed with flavor. The creamy texture envelops tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice, creating a delicious meal that the whole family enjoys. I appreciate that it all cooks in one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to savor each bite. This recipe has become a staple in my home, and I can't wait to share it with you so you can enjoy it just as much as I do!

Created by

Sybil Hawkes

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:37:35.848Z

When I first tried my hand at one-pot meals, I instantly fell in love with how effortless they were. This Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice was my introduction to a wonderful world of convenient cooking. The richness of the cream combined with the savory chicken makes every spoonful a delight. I still remember the first time it was served; my family couldn't stop asking for seconds!

Over time, I've experimented with various spices and vegetables to add more depth to the dish. The method of allowing the rice to absorb all the flavors of the chicken truly elevates the entire meal. A little tip: to enhance the creaminess, stir in some Parmesan cheese just before serving. You'll thank me!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy flavor that warms the soul
All cooked in one pot for easy cleanup
Perfectly seasoned chicken with tender rice

The Secrets of Creamy Texture

Achieving that luxurious creamy texture in this dish comes primarily from the heavy cream. I recommend using a quality heavy cream with a fat content of around 36% to maintain richness. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half and half, but the sauce will be less velvety. The cream not only enhances the flavor but also balances the savory notes from the chicken and broth, making every bite comforting and satisfying.

It’s crucial to add the cream at the right moment to prevent it from curdling. Stir it in after the chicken and rice have simmered, ensuring the heat is on low. This way, the cream merges with the liquid without breaking down, allowing the sauce to become glossy and thick. Just be sure to stir occasionally as it cooks, preventing any sticking at the bottom of the pot.

Perfecting the Chicken

For optimal flavor absorption, be sure to season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper before cooking. This step enhances the meat's natural flavors and ensures each bite is seasoned. During sautéing, look for the chicken to develop a golden-brown crust, as this indicates a good Maillard reaction, which adds depth to the flavor profile of the final dish.

If you prefer white meat, chicken breasts work well too. Just be cautious not to overcook them, as they can dry out. Sauté them for about 4 minutes on each side, adjusting the cooking time if necessary based on thickness. Also, consider marinating the chicken beforehand in spices like paprika or herbs to elevate the overall flavor.

Cooking Rice to Perfection

Using long-grain rice is recommended because it cooks evenly and remains fluffy, preventing the dish from becoming too starchy. Be sure to rinse the rice under cold water before adding it to the pot; this step removes excess starch and helps maintain that desirable texture. After adding it to the broth, wait for it to reach a full boil before lowering the heat, as this initial high temperature is vital for proper cooking.

Keep an eye on the rice during the simmering phase. It’s ready when it has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender, typically around 15 minutes. If you find the rice isn't fully cooked but the liquid is nearly gone, simply add a splash of extra broth or water and cover the pot to encourage further steaming.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to prepare your creamy chicken and rice:

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your creamy chicken and rice:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice, then add the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Combine Everything

Add the browned chicken back into the pot. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Finish with Cream and Peas

Stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Cook uncovered for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.

Serve hot, and enjoy your one-pot masterpiece!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking. Pair it with a green salad for a complete meal!

Storing and Reheating

This Creamy One Pot Chicken and Rice is perfect for meal prep. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld over time, making it even more delicious the next day. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing to avoid condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

When reheating, check for cream separation, especially if you're using a microwave. Stirring occasionally, heat on medium power to maintain its creamy consistency rather than boiling it aggressively. If it seems thickened, whisk in a little chicken broth or water to loosen it up before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal, consider serving this dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. The bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, while the salad adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the chicken and rice. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving can also enhance the dish’s presentation and flavor.

For variations, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the dish along with the peas. Both ingredients add not only nutrition but also flavor depth and can make this dish feel new each time you prepare it. Adjust the seasoning as needed to accommodate these additional ingredients for a personalized touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

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

→ Is there a way to make it healthier?

You can swap heavy cream for low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative, and add more veggies!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.