This creamy chicken and rice dinner is a warm and comforting meal! It combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich creamy sauce that makes everyone smile.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts keep it simple and quick. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using chicken thighs instead—they’re juicier! You can even replace chicken with tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect here for fluffy results. However, you can use brown rice, though you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Quinoa or cauliflower rice works if you’re aiming for lower carbs.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or even milk. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer. It won’t be as rich but still delicious!
Frozen Peas/Mixed Vegetables: These add color and nutrients, but feel free to swap in any frozen veggies you have. Carrots, corn, or green beans work well and add variety.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Tender?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky! Start by seasoning your chicken breasts well. Browning them first adds flavor and keeps juices in. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet to medium before adding oil or butter.
- Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until golden, then check with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s about 165°F when finished.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain heat!
- Remove them when they’re not fully cooked; they’ll finish cooking in the rice and broth mixture.
By monitoring the chicken’s temperature, you’ll ensure every bite is tender and juicy!
Creamy Chicken and Rice Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy chicken and rice dinner will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, making the total time around 40 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This helps to bring out all the flavors!
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook them until they are golden brown on both sides but not fully cooked through. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. This helps build a solid flavor base for the dish!
4. Add the Rice:
Add the rice to the pan and stir for 1-2 minutes. This little toasting step helps the rice to absorb flavors and adds a nice texture.
5. Mix in Liquid:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.
6. Nestle the Chicken:
Return the chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the rice mixture so they can finish cooking while flavoring the dish.
7. Simmer It Down:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer gently until the rice is cooked and the chicken is fully cooked through, which should take about 18-20 minutes.
8. Make It Creamy:
Once everything is cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts again. Now stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese (if you’re using it) into the rice until it becomes warm and creamy. If you’re adding frozen peas or mixed vegetables, stir them in now and let them heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
9. Return the Chicken:
Finally, return the chicken breasts to the pan for a minute to warm them through.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy chicken and rice dinner with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time—around 30-40 minutes. Make sure to adjust the amount of chicken broth slightly, as brown rice typically needs more liquid to cook properly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and rice mixture up to the point of adding cream and cheese. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, then add the cream and cheese to keep it creamy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream while reheating to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! You can add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli. Just ensure they are cut into small pieces and added to the pan during the cooking process, so they become tender and flavorful.
