Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe, a comfort-food gem that brings together tender chicken, fragrant rice, and a luscious cream sauce into one irresistible dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. This recipe balances rich flavors with simple ingredients, making it both approachable and unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the smoky paprika that seasons the chicken, to the melting butter that softens the onions and garlic, and finally the Parmesan cheese that adds a nutty, savory finish. These essentials combine for incredible depth and texture with minimal fuss.
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into small bite-size cubes: Choose fresh chicken breasts for tender, juicy pieces that absorb all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and vibrant color to your chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A concentrated boost of garlic flavor that blends perfectly with the fresh minced garlic.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the fresh onion and enhances savory depth.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For a rich base to sauté onions and garlic gently without overpowering the dish.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and aroma to the dish as it softens.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic provides fragrance and a punch of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds herby brightness and coordinates beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup long-grain rice, such as Jasmine: The perfect fluffy grain that soaks up the rich broth and cream.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Essential for cooking the rice and infusing it with savory goodness without excess salt.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The star of the creaminess, making the dish luxuriously smooth.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty dimension that melts into the cream for ultimate comfort.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A pop of color and a fresh finish to brighten the dish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by coating those juicy chicken cubes in sweet paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This simple seasoning layer is key for infusing the chicken with flavor before it even hits the pan, setting the stage for the creamy delight ahead.
Step 2: Cook the Onions and Garlic
Melt unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and cook until they turn soft and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness. Add the minced garlic last and cook just long enough for it to become fragrant—if it browned, the flavor would turn bitter.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Introduce the seasoned chicken to the skillet with the buttery onions and garlic. Cook the pieces until they are no longer pink inside, getting them nicely seared on the outside to lock in juiciness and flavor.
Step 4: Add Rice, Broth, and Seasoning
Time to build the rice base—sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir to coat the chicken and aromatics. Add the Jasmine rice and pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then cover the skillet to let everything simmer gently for about 15 minutes. The rice will absorb the savory broth as it cooks to fluffy perfection.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Once the rice is tender, slowly stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This step transforms the dish into the creamy masterpiece it promises to be. Cook a few more minutes until the rice soaks up the cream, the sauce thickens, and the cheese melts into a rich, velvety coating. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a cheerful dash of green but also imparts a subtle herbal freshness that balances the rich creaminess of the dish. You can also add a little extra Parmesan if you love that cheesy punch.
Side Dishes
This creamy main pairs beautifully with crisp green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a simple mixed green salad. The freshness and crunch of these sides contrast deliciously with the softness of the chicken and rice, making every bite interesting.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe in pretty shallow bowls for a family-style feel, or even spoon it into hollowed-out bell peppers for an eye-catching presentation. For gatherings, scatter toasted pine nuts and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top for a nutty, glossy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, so it’s perfect for next-day lunches or dinners that need a quick reheat.
Freezing
You can freeze the dish safely by transferring cooled portions into freezer-friendly containers. Freeze for up to 2 months—just be aware that the texture of the cream may change slightly after thawing, but reheating gently helps restore its creaminess.
Reheating
Reheat the Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. This method preserves the creamy texture best, ensuring your meal feels fresh and satisfying all over again.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of Jasmine rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid to get tender, so adjust accordingly.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan to keep that cheesy vibe without dairy.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs are a great option and tend to stay juicier. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?
Use the recommended rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid stirring too much while it simmers. Covering the pan helps steam the rice evenly without overcooking.
Can this be made in a slow cooker?
It can, but you’ll need to adjust the steps: cook the chicken and onions first, then combine all ingredients except cream and Parmesan in the slow cooker. Add cream and cheese towards the end of cooking to avoid curdling.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe a try because it has all the elements of a perfect homemade meal—comforting, creamy, and bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making again and again when you want food that feels special but comes together easily. So grab your skillet and start cooking—you’re in for a delicious treat!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and creamy chicken and rice dish made with tender chicken breasts, aromatic spices, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, all cooked together in one skillet for a flavorful and easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into small bite-size cubes
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup long-grain rice, such as Jasmine
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Combine the chicken cubes with sweet paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, coating the pieces evenly. Set the seasoned chicken aside to let the flavors meld.
- Cook the onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink in the center and is cooked through.
- Add rice and broth: Stir in the Italian seasoning, long-grain rice, and low-sodium chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture simmer gently for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish the dish: Pour in the heavy cream and add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well and cook until the rice absorbs the cream and the sauce becomes creamy and thick. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though it will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- If you prefer spicier food, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the onions.
- Ensure the skillet is covered during simmering to properly cook the rice.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently to prevent the cream from separating.
