Irresistible Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe for Comfort

The aroma wafting through your kitchen from a pot of creamy chicken and rice is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chunks of chicken swimming in a velvety sauce, enveloped in perfectly cooked rice, all while whispering sweet nothings to your taste buds. This dish does not just fill your stomach; it fills your heart with nostalgia and comfort.

Remember the last time you gathered around the dinner table with loved ones, laughter bouncing off the walls as you passed around bowls of this deliciousness? Creamy chicken and rice is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, transforming any ordinary evening into a cozy feast that you’ll talk about for weeks. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, this delightful dish is sure to impress.

Sharing this recipe with friends led to rave reviews, especially when they discovered how quickly I could whip it up!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best flavor; they add an aromatic punch.

• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing flavors.

• Rice: Long-grain white or brown rice works well; consider using jasmine for extra fragrance.

• Cream Cheese: Adds richness and creaminess; choose full-fat for the best texture.

• Onion: A small onion adds sweetness; sauté until soft and translucent.

• Frozen Peas: These add color and pop; no need to thaw before cooking!

• Olive Oil: Helps in sautéing ingredients without sticking to the pan.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients first—chop onions, mince garlic, and measure out rice. This makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable!

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté diced onions until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add Chicken Pieces: Toss in bite-sized pieces of chicken. Cook until golden brown on all sides, roughly 7-10 minutes. Don’t rush; let those flavors develop!

Pour in Broth and Rice: Add chicken broth and rinsed rice to the skillet. Stir gently to combine everything while bringing it to a gentle boil.

Stir in Cream Cheese and Peas: Once boiling, add cream cheese to create that luscious sauce. Mix well before folding in frozen peas for vibrant color.

Simmer Until Perfectly Cooked: Reduce heat to low, cover your pan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice absorbs liquid and is tender.

And there you have it! In less than an hour, you’ve whipped up creamy chicken and rice that’s both satisfying and soul-warming. Enjoy serving this dish hot from the skillet or even letting it cool slightly—if you can resist!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in moisture, then cook rice while preparing a creamy sauce. This method ensures everything finishes at the same time and remains deliciously tender.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out white rice for brown or add vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrition. Experimenting with different herbs can also change the flavor profile to suit your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth for creaminess.

Cooking this dish reminds me of cozy family dinners where laughter filled the air, and everyone left happily full. My aunt once told me, “It’s not just about the food; it’s about making memories.”

FAQ

Can I make creamy chicken and rice gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken your sauce without worries.

What can I substitute for cream in this recipe?

You can use coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter option while maintaining creaminess.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer for safety.

Print

Creamy Chicken and Rice

---

• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy chicken and rice is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort to your table. Tender chicken simmered in a rich, velvety sauce pairs perfectly with fluffy rice, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish is quick to prepare and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables. Discover the magic of flavors and simplicity in every bite!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 4 oz cream cheese (full-fat)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tbsp olive oil

---

Instructions

1. Prep ingredients by chopping onions and mincing garlic.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Add chicken pieces; cook until golden brown on all sides (7-10 minutes).
4. Pour in chicken broth and rinsed rice; stir gently and bring to a gentle boil.
5. Stir in cream cheese until melted, then fold in frozen peas.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, substitute white rice with brown rice or mix in spinach. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper before cooking for enhanced flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat with a splash of broth.