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One-Pot Creamy Chicken & Rice

A comforting and easy one-pot meal with tender chicken, creamy rice, and savory seasonings, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

One-Pot Chicken & Rice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup frozen peas optional
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • fresh parsley chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, sauté onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in rice and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast.
  4. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  5. Return chicken to the pot, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  6. Stir in frozen peas (if using) and Parmesan cheese. Cover for 2-3 minutes to let peas cook through.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, add mushrooms or bell peppers. Adjust creaminess with additional broth or cream if needed.