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

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Plates

I absolutely love making creamy one pot chicken and rice because it's both comforting and simple! The best part is that everything cooks together in one pot, creating a rich flavor that you just can’t resist. Each bite combines juicy chicken, tender rice, and a creamy sauce that's reminiscent of a cozy family dinner. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any day when I just want to unwind with a delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:45:37.753Z

I’ve tried countless one pot meals, but this creamy chicken and rice recipe truly stands out. The method of cooking the chicken first allows the meat to develop a deeper flavor before introducing the rice and broth. The creaminess comes from adding a touch of cream towards the end, ensuring it doesn’t separate while cooking. This little trick transforms a simple dish into something extraordinary!

One of my favorite tips to ensure the rice cooks perfectly is to let it simmer undisturbed after adding the liquid. This way, the rice absorbs all those irresistible flavors, and it turns out perfectly fluffy every time. I can guarantee this will become a repeat favorite in your household!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and indulgent that satisfies every palate
One-pot convenience makes cleanup a breeze
Packed with flavor and nutrients from fresh ingredients

      

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The cream in this recipe is what elevates it to a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet homemade. To achieve the ideal creamy texture, ensure that you allow the rice to absorb all the broth before adding the heavy cream. This way, the sauce will incorporate seamlessly, creating a luscious coating that clings to the chicken and rice. A tip I find helpful is to stir the mixture gently after adding the cream to avoid breaking up the rice grains.

For those who want to experiment with flavors, consider adding a splash of white wine before incorporating the cream. This not only adds a layer of acidity that brightens the dish but also complements the richness of the heavy cream beautifully. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat Greek yogurt, which will still give you the creaminess but with fewer calories.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Choosing quality chicken thighs is essential since they provide both flavor and moisture to this dish. Thighs are more forgiving than breasts and won’t dry out during cooking, making them perfect for one-pot meals. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent drying out. Sear them just until golden on both sides, about 4-5 minutes, and make sure to check doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F).

For a vegetarian alternative, you can replace the chicken with mushrooms or a plant-based protein like tofu. If opting for mushrooms, sauté them until they are golden and moisture is released before adding your aromatics. This will ensure that the flavors remain concentrated and won't water down the creamy sauce. Additionally, vegetable broth can be used in place of chicken broth to keep the dish flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

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

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sear the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the chicken to the pot and sear both sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and cook for 20 minutes.

Finish with Cream

Once the rice is cooked and the liquid absorbed, stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your creamy, one-pot meal!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some grated parmesan cheese just before serving. It melts beautifully into the creamy sauce. This recipe can also be adapted by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during the cooking process.

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy one pot chicken and rice makes an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before reheating, it’s helpful to add a splash of chicken broth to restore some moisture. When you’re ready to serve, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Keep an eye on the consistency, adding more liquid if needed to achieve the desired creaminess.

If you're planning to freeze leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a touch of broth or cream to revive the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables, which can brighten the meal with freshness. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil can add a pop of color and enhance the flavor. For a bit of crunch, consider serving it alongside some crusty bread that you can use to soak up the creamy sauce.

For a twist, you could add a handful of spinach or kale during the final cooking stage, allowing the greens to wilt gently into the dish. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a lovely green color that makes the dish more visually appealing. Alternatively, you might try topping each serving with grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and use more liquid. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes 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 cream alternative of your choice.

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily. Cooking them for a shorter time can help retain moisture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Allow the chicken and rice to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.