This creamy chicken and rice dish is a comforting meal that’s super easy to make. It’s filled with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a yummy creamy sauce. What’s not to love?
Sometimes, I can’t believe how quick this comes together! Just toss everything in the pot and let it simmer. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal, or try tofu for a vegetarian version.
Rice: Long grain white rice gives a nice texture, but if you need a substitute, brown rice is an option—just note that it will take longer to cook. Quinoa can also be a healthier alternative if you want something different.
Heavy Cream: If you’re watching your calories, half-and-half or even unsweetened almond milk can be used instead. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk lends a nice flavor, though it will change the taste slightly.
Cheese: I love using cheddar for its rich flavor. If it’s not available, feel free to swap it with mozzarella or even a dairy-free cheese. Just keep in mind, the creaminess can vary.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Rice in a Creamy Dish?
Cooking the rice perfectly is key to this dish. Follow these steps to ensure it comes out fluffy and delicious:
- After adding the rice to the skillet, make sure it’s mixed well with the oil and juices; this helps it absorb flavors.
- When you pour in the broth, bring it to a gentle simmer first. Suddenly turning up the heat can lead to uneven cooking.
- Cover the skillet tightly with a lid during cooking. This traps steam, helping the rice cook thoroughly.
- Let it sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid.
With these tips, you should achieve great results every time. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice!
Creamy Chicken and Rice Easy Dinner Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for cooking, so you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and thyme or Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.
3. Add Rice and Broth:
Next, stir in the uncooked rice, making sure it’s coated with the juices and oil in the pan. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it cook for 15-18 minutes. The rice should be tender and the liquid mostly absorbed when finished.
4. Mix in Cream and Cheese:
After the rice is cooked, reduce the heat to low again and stir in the heavy cream and the shredded cheddar cheese, if you’re using it. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy and luscious.
5. Final Touches:
Taste your dish and feel free to adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Once everything’s perfect, garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
And there you have it! Enjoy your creamy, comforting chicken and rice dinner—it’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or quickly thaw in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Make sure to pat it dry before cooking for better browning.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter alternative, half-and-half works well. For a dairy-free version, you can use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, but keep in mind that using coconut milk will give a slightly different flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Let the dish cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and rice mixture ahead of time, and store it in the refrigerator before adding the cream and cheese. Just add those ingredients and reheat on the stove when you’re ready to serve!
