Creamy Chicken and Rice

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and full of rich, savory flavor? This Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe checks all the boxes. It’s warm, hearty, and perfectly satisfying with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze—perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pan Wonder – Fewer dishes, more flavor.
Family Favorite – Creamy, mild, and comforting for both kids and adults.
Hearty & Filling – Protein-packed and satisfying on its own.
Quick & Easy – Ready in 40 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
Versatile – Customize with different veggies or swap rice for quinoa.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Creamy Chicken and Rice:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup milk (whole or any unsweetened plant-based milk)
• ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or any mixed vegetables)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp dried thyme

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra shredded cheese
• Cracked black pepper

Tools You’ll Need
Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
Mixing spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Garlic

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Rice and Broth

1. Stir in the uncooked rice and cook for 1 minute to lightly toast it.
2. Pour in chicken broth and dried thyme, stirring to combine.
3. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
4. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Return Chicken and Add Vegetables

1. Stir in the cooked chicken and frozen peas and carrots.
2. Cover and cook for another 10–12 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

1. Reduce heat to low. Stir in milk and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
2. Add shredded cheese and mix until melted and fully incorporated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, cracked black pepper, and a little extra cheese if desired.
2. Serve warm straight from the pan and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken and Rice
Use Long-Grain White Rice – It holds up well and stays fluffy.
Toast the Rice – Briefly toasting before adding liquid adds depth of flavor.
Don’t Skip the Cheese – It gives the dish that irresistible creamy finish.
Let It Rest – A few minutes off the heat thickens the sauce beautifully.

Serving Suggestions
Steamed Green Beans – Light and crisp to balance the creaminess.
Simple Garden Salad – With a lemon vinaigrette for freshness.
Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
Roasted Broccoli – A nutritious and flavorful side.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and reheat over medium-low.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Skip the first cooking step and add the shredded chicken when you stir in the vegetables.

2. Can I use brown rice?
You can, but brown rice takes longer to cook. Add extra broth and cook for 35–40 minutes.

3. What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar works great, but you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend.

4. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Use plant-based milk, dairy-free yogurt, and cheese alternatives for a creamy texture.

5. Is this freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Freeze in portions for quick, reheatable meals later.

Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Rice is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s easy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for when you want something homemade without a lot of work. Whether you make it for a cozy dinner or batch-cook it for the week, it’s sure to become a favorite.

Try it out and let me know how it goes! Share your own version online—I’d love to see your take on this creamy comfort dish.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – based on 6 servings):
Calories: 395 | Protein: 29g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 520mg

Print