Creamy Chicken and Rice

Introduction

Ever wonder if there’s a way to make a full, hearty dinner without dirtying half the kitchen? This Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe answers with a resounding yes. It’s the perfect fusion of juicy chicken, velvety sauce, and tender rice—all in one comforting pot. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is a dream for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this creamy chicken and rice recipe is simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients List

For the Chicken and Rice:

1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
2 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium)

For the Creamy Sauce:

½ cup heavy cream (or half & half)
½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but tasty)
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for a flavor boost)

Optional Add-ins:

1 cup frozen peas, broccoli, or spinach
2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Substitutions:

Swap rice for brown rice (increase broth & cooking time).
Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Dairy-free? Use unsweetened oat milk and vegan sour cream.

Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes

Faster than ordering takeout—and more satisfying!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, sauté chopped onions for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Toast Rice

Stir in the rice and cook for 1–2 minutes to toast slightly. This adds a subtle nutty depth of flavor.

Step 4: Simmer

Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Return chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer on low for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Make it Creamy

Stir in heavy cream, sour cream, cheese, and mustard. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add veggies now if using, and cook for 2–3 more minutes.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

Top with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm!

Nutrition (Per Serving – Serves 4)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~520
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fat	28g
Fiber	2g

Nutrition varies based on ingredients and portions.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Use cauliflower rice for low-carb or keto versions.
Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or light coconut milk.
Add more veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or kale to boost fiber and vitamins.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp side salad for freshness.
Serve with roasted carrots or green beans for a full plate.
Scoop into bowl-style meal preps with extra veggies and grains.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Undercooking rice: Don’t rush the simmer—use a tight lid and low heat.
Overcooking chicken: If using breasts, don’t let them simmer too long or they’ll dry out.
Clumpy sauce: Stir continuously when adding cream to keep it silky.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months (thaw overnight in fridge).
Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe brings all the comfort of a home-cooked meal with the simplicity of a one-pot dish. It’s rich, savory, and endlessly versatile—everything you need to win dinner tonight.

Give it a try and let us know how you personalized it! Drop a comment or subscribe for more easy one-pot meals.