Made in just one pan, this hearty meal combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables all covered in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling and delicious.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories: 545 per serving
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Your Family ?
This one-pan creamy chicken and rice recipe is a lifesaver for busy families. You get protein, vegetables, and starch all in one dish, which means less cleanup and more time to spend with your loved ones. Plus, it’s ready in just 40 minutes and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked all the way through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is soft and the garlic smells good.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the rice to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together so the rice gets coated with the butter and oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice. This step adds extra flavor to your dish.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once it’s boiling, turn the heat down to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the broth.
Step 5: Make it Creamy
Stir in the heavy cream, cooked chicken, frozen peas and carrots, Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring gently, until everything is heated through and the sauce is creamy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting meal with your family.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken and rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. It’s also delicious with steamed broccoli or green beans on the side.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in a covered container. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to keep it creamy, then warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.
Recipe Tips for Success
- Cut your chicken into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly
- Don’t skip toasting the rice – it adds great flavor
- Use frozen vegetables to save time and prevent overcooking
- Stir gently when adding the cream to keep the rice from getting mushy
- Fresh parsley makes a big difference in the final flavor
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep the vegetables and cut the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook. The whole dish can also be made a day ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop.
This easy creamy chicken and rice recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and one pan, you’ll have a delicious family dinner that everyone will ask for again and again!
