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: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup rice (long grain or jasmine); 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warmth in a Plate

When I decided to make Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice for dinner, I was craving something comforting yet simple. I love the idea of minimal cleanup while still enjoying a hearty meal. The creamy texture and flavorful chicken meld beautifully over a bed of rice and veggies. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Making this dish is so easy, and it quickly became a favorite in our home. I can't wait for you to try it and discover how deliciously satisfying it is.

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:33:36.072Z

As I prepared this dish, I discovered that using a good quality chicken broth enhances the flavor significantly. The simplicity of cooking everything in one pot allows the rice to absorb the delicious juices from the chicken and spices, creating a rich taste that can't be beaten. I recommend letting it simmer just a little longer to achieve that perfect creaminess.

One specific tip I learned while making this was to add a splash of lemon juice at the end. It brightens the entire dish and contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture, making every bite stand out. Trust me, it’s a game changer!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy, dreamy texture that will have you going back for seconds.
One pot means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

Achieving that rich, creamy texture in this dish largely depends on the heavy cream you choose. I recommend a high-quality, full-fat cream to ensure a luscious mouthfeel. If you're aiming for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but be cautious as the flavor may lack the same depth. Stirring in the cream at the right moment, after the rice has absorbed the broth, allows it to meld perfectly without breaking down the cream's natural structure, preventing curdling.

Another critical step is ensuring the chicken is cooked before adding the heavy cream. If you overcook the chicken, it can become tough and chewy, marring the dish's overall enjoyment. Look for golden-brown edges on the chicken pieces, indicating that they are nicely seared and will complement the creamy base beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to customize this recipe, consider swapping out the chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster and may dry out if overcooked, so reduce the initial cooking time to about 3-5 minutes. Alternatively, for a vegetarian twist, you can replace chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers or use diced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different types of rice, like basmati or Arborio. Each rice variety will impart its unique texture and taste. If using Arborio, for instance, you might end up with a creamier risotto-like consistency. Adjust the liquid proportion accordingly since different rice types absorb liquids at different rates.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start your cooking adventure!

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup rice (long grain or jasmine)
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Once you have everything ready, you’re all set to create this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bring your one-pot creation to life!

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Include Rice and Broth

Add the rice and Italian seasoning to the pot, stirring to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.

Stir in Cream and Veggies

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas and carrots. Allow everything to heat through for another 5 minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy this comforting meal!

Enjoy your meal! It's sure to become a family favorite.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of herbs and spices prior to cooking. Additionally, feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Making Creamy One Pot Chicken and Rice in advance is a fantastic time-saver for busy weekdays. Cook the dish completely and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen up the consistency, as it tends to thicken when chilled.

If you’d like to freeze this dish, make sure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on low, stirring occasionally to bring back that creamy texture.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

This dish is beautifully versatile and pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add a bit of freshness. A light vinaigrette on the salad can help balance the richness of the creamy chicken and rice.

For a touch of zest, consider serving it with lemon wedges on the side. The acidity from the lemon can brighten the creamy flavors and add another layer of complexity to each bite. Additionally, topping the dish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving can elevate it further, creating a delightful savory finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but brown rice will take longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze it! Allow to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What do I serve with this dish?

This one-pot meal stands well on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.