Creamy Chicken And Rice One Pot Dinner

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice One Pot Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup (200g) long-grain rice; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups (720ml) chicken broth; 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Tasty

I absolutely love this Creamy Chicken and Rice One Pot Dinner! It’s straightforward to prepare and bursting with flavor, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. The magic happens in just one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to spend with my family. The creamy texture is achieved by simmering the rice in a rich chicken broth until it's perfectly tender. I always appreciate the way the flavors meld together, ensuring that every bite is just as delicious as the last.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:55:17.346Z

This recipe evolved from a family favorite that I found while experimenting in the kitchen. Initially, I was skeptical about making a one-pot dish, but the results blew me away! The chicken stays juicy and tender, while the rice absorbs all of the savory broth's flavors, creating a comforting meal.

I learned that sautéing the chicken first is essential. It adds a deep layer of flavor that permeates the entire dish. Plus, don’t forget to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking – this little step really enhances the creaminess and overall texture.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pot convenience that minimizes cleanup
Rich, creamy texture with hearty chicken and rice
Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep

Unlocking Flavor

The foundation of flavor in this dish begins with properly sautéing the onion and garlic. This step should not be rushed—you want the onion to become translucent and aromatic, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes over medium heat. Not only does this add depth to the entire dish, but it also infuses the chicken and rice with a rich, savory base that carries through every bite.

For an even richer flavor profile, consider adding a splash of white wine after the onions become translucent. Let it evaporate for a minute before moving on to the rice. This little trick brightens up the overall taste and adds a layer of complexity that elevates the creamy chicken and rice experience.

Perfecting the Creaminess

Achieving the right creamy consistency is key to this recipe. When you add the heavy cream, be sure to stir it in thoroughly, allowing it to meld with the chicken and rice. Look for a finish where the mixture is glossy and uniform, indicating that the cream is beautifully integrated. It'll only take 2-3 minutes on low heat to achieve that perfect texture.

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. While the texture might be slightly less rich, it still offers a creamy result without the full fat content. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream or a nut-based cream alternative, but keep in mind these will slightly alter the flavor.

Storing and Reheating

This Creamy Chicken and Rice One Pot Dinner is perfect for meal prepping. You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture and creamy texture, especially if it has thickened in the fridge.

For longer storage, this dish freezes well, too. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of liquid if necessary to restore creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup (200g) long-grain rice
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups (720ml) chicken broth
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have these ready to ensure a seamless cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious dinner:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. This step is crucial as it builds flavor!

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice and Italian seasoning, allowing it to toast for a minute. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the pot. Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Stir in Cream

Once done, stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning if needed. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until creamy and heated throughout.

Garnish and Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your comforting one-pot meal!

Enjoy your meal and the delightful flavors mingling in this creamy dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, toss in some fresh vegetables like peas or spinach towards the end of cooking. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

This one-pot dinner pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables, balancing the creamy richness of the dish. Fresh greens add a refreshing crunch and can be dressed lightly to complement the comforting flavors of the chicken and rice. Consider a lemon vinaigrette to add a zesty brightness.

For a complete meal, serve it alongside a crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the creamy sauce. Alternatively, you can serve it in bowls topped with grated Parmesan and freshly cracked pepper for an extra touch of indulgence.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this dish by adding vegetables of your choice. Frozen peas or spinach can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color. If you like heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes—this can elevate the dish with a delightful kick.

Experiment with different herbs, too! Fresh thyme or rosemary can lend an aromatic quality while enhancing the overall taste. If you're feeling adventurous, try swapping out the Italian seasoning for a Tuscan blend for a unique twist on the classic flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes and add more broth.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients and cook it when you're ready, or store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I use instead of chicken?

Feel free to substitute with turkey or a plant-based protein, just adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ Does this dish freeze well?

Yes, it freezes well! Just store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.