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; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup rice (white or brown); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Table Favorites

I absolutely love making this Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice when I want a comforting meal that's both simple and satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice creates a dish that always feels indulgent without taking too much time to prepare. Everything cooks together in one pot, which not only makes cleanup a breeze but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I often find myself going back for seconds, or even thirds, because it's just that good!

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:41:35.944Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. The secret lies in the way the chicken is seared first to lock in those juices, making sure every bite is tender and flavorful. Adding the rice to the pot with the chicken allows it to absorb all the delicious broth and seasonings, creating a dish that feels truly luxurious while being utterly straightforward.

I also discovered that using a combination of chicken broth and a splash of cream makes the sauce irresistible. It's the kind of dish that families will ask for again and again, and it's perfect for cozy dinners at home. I highly recommend using fresh herbs to finish it off – they really elevate the whole meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that's comforting on cold nights.
Saves time with everything cooked in one pot.
Versatile and can be made with various vegetables.

Understanding the Creamy Base

The creamy texture in this dish comes primarily from the heavy cream, which enriches the broth and rice, resulting in a luxurious mouthfeel. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or sour cream, stirring it in during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds a tangy flavor while still achieving a creamy consistency. Just be cautious to add it off the heat to prevent curdling.

Incorporating the right amount of chicken broth is essential to balance the richness of the cream. Too much liquid may result in a soupy texture instead of a cohesive dish. I recommend using low-sodium broth for better control over seasoning. When the liquid is added, ensure it's brought to a gentle simmer—this sets the foundation for perfectly cooked rice that absorbs all the delicious flavors of the chicken and spices.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

To achieve fluffy rice, the toasting step before adding the broth is crucial. By sautéing the rice for a couple of minutes, you not only enhance its flavor but also create a slight barrier that helps it maintain its shape during cooking. This technique minimizes the risk of mushy rice—a common pitfall when cooking grains in a wet environment. Just keep an eye on the rice; it should become slightly translucent but not browned.

Simmering the rice and chicken together for the right amount of time is another key factor. The ideal cooking time is around 20 minutes on low heat. If you're using brown rice, you may need to extend the simmering time to about 30-35 minutes to ensure full tenderness. Always check for doneness by tasting the rice; it should be tender yet still have a slight bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious meal:

Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup rice (white or brown)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice:

Sear the Chicken

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

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.

Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the pot, add the paprika, and stir in the cream. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Garnish and Serve

Once done, fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately for a creamy, delicious meal!

Enjoy your comforting dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding your favorite vegetables such as peas or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to switch up the protein in this recipe, chicken thighs can easily be replaced with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, keep in mind that breasts cook faster and may dry out if overcooked, so reduce the cooking time to about 15 minutes for best results. Alternatively, diced turkey works well too and provides a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

For a vegetarian version, consider substituting chickpeas or firm tofu for the chicken. If using tofu, make sure to press it first to remove excess moisture, which allows it to crisp up nicely when sautéed. Additionally, you can include a medley of vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas—just be sure to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking them.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is fantastic for meal prep; simply make a larger batch and store it in airtight containers once cooled. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce, as the rice may absorb more liquid upon cooling.

If you want to freeze portions, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. I recommend freezing in single servings for easy thawing. Just be aware that the cream may change texture slightly after freezing. To retain its silkiness, stir in a bit more cream or a splash of milk when reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but be aware that brown rice may require additional cooking time and more liquid.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Ensure to use gluten-free chicken broth and check that your rice is gluten-free as well.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients in advance and cook it on the day you plan to serve it for maximum freshness.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's delicious on its own, but you could pair it with a simple green salad for added freshness.