Creamy Chicken with Rice Recipe

If you crave the kind of comforting meal that brings everyone running to the table, Creamy Chicken with Rice delivers every single time. This dish features tender chicken breasts nestled in a luxurious, velvety sauce with fluffy rice cooked right in, soaking up all those incredible flavors. It’s a beloved dinner in my home—for busy weeknights or when I need a foolproof recipe to impress guests. Creamy Chicken with Rice is hearty, deeply satisfying, and just fancy enough to feel special, yet simple enough for any cook.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about Creamy Chicken with Rice is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each element plays a starring role, building rich layers of flavor and texture, all while keeping prep a breeze.

• Chicken breasts: Go for boneless, skinless for speedy cooking and easy slicing.
• Chicken broth: This is your key to depth—use a good quality broth for the biggest boost in flavor.
• Heavy cream: It’s the magic maker for that dreamy, creamy sauce everyone loves.
• Long-grain rice: Absorbs the sauce perfectly while staying separate and fluffy.
• Olive oil: Adds a hint of fruitiness and ensures golden, flavorful chicken every time.
• Garlic powder: Brings gentle warmth and rounds everything out without overpowering.
• Onion powder: Sweetens the dish with a subtle, background savoriness.
• Salt and pepper: Don’t underestimate how proper seasoning makes every bite pop.
• Fresh parsley: A bright, herbal finish that lifts the entire dish—don’t skip it!

How to Make Creamy Chicken with Rice

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Begin by patting your chicken breasts dry—this helps them get that golden crust without steaming. Sprinkle each side generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Trust me, seasoning the chicken well now means every bite will be savory and packed with flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Let them sear undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This browning locks in juiciness and adds so much flavor to the dish.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce and Add Rice

Remove the chicken to a plate, but keep all those tasty browned bits in the pan—those are pure flavor gold! Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and scrape up anything stuck to the bottom. Add the rice, stirring again to ensure every grain is surrounded by creamy goodness.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

Nestle the browned chicken breasts back into the creamy rice mixture. Lower the heat, cover, and let it gently simmer for 20-25 minutes. By the end, the chicken will be cooked through and beautifully tender, while the rice becomes creamy yet distinct.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is perfectly cooked, take the pan off the heat. Sprinkle a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley over the top. It looks gorgeous and the freshness cuts through the richness in the most delicious way.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken with Rice

Garnishes

A simple shower of freshly chopped parsley is classic, but if you want to up the ante, a sprinkle of lemon zest or even a handful of snipped chives can brighten every forkful of Creamy Chicken with Rice. A touch of grated parmesan over the top right before serving is also stunning, adding just the right salty finish.

Side Dishes

Since Creamy Chicken with Rice is so cozy and filling, I love pairing it with light, fresh side dishes. A crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables (think broccoli, asparagus, or carrots) work beautifully to balance the meal and add lots of color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve Creamy Chicken with Rice in wide, shallow bowls so every bite gets a perfect ratio of creamy rice and juicy chicken. You can also use a ring mold to make a rice “nest” with the chicken fanned on top, or serve family-style in the center of the table for that inviting, help-yourself feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any remaining Creamy Chicken with Rice cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll keep happily in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an ideal lunchtime treat or second-day dinner.

Freezing

Creamy Chicken with Rice freezes surprisingly well! Portion individual servings into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to one month. Be sure to defrost in the fridge overnight for the best texture when you’re ready to reheat.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen things up, then gently warm over medium heat on the stove or microwave in 1-minute bursts. Stir well as you go so the rice stays creamy without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay ultra-juicy and adapt beautifully to this recipe. Just add a few extra minutes to the simmering time if needed to ensure they’re cooked through.

What type of rice works best in Creamy Chicken with Rice?

Long-grain white rice is classic for its fluffy, tender grains, but basmati is also lovely if you want a little extra aroma. I recommend avoiding short-grain or instant rice, as they can become gummy in the sauce.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

The base recipe is already gluten-free! Just check your chicken broth and any seasonings to confirm there are no hidden gluten-containing additives.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Certainly! Try tossing in a handful of peas, baby spinach, or small broccoli florets during the last 5-10 minutes of simmering. Their color and freshness make Creamy Chicken with Rice even more appealing.

Is there a lighter version of Creamy Chicken with Rice?

If you’re looking to cut back on richness, you can swap half (or all) of the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. The sauce won’t be quite as luxurious but it’s still incredibly tasty and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you’ll give Creamy Chicken with Rice a spot in your rotation—it’s just one of those dishes that feeds both your stomach and your soul. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or you’re welcoming friends to your table, there’s no way to go wrong with this creamy, comforting classic. Happy cooking!

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