Creamy One Pot Chicken Rice

Name: Creamy One Pot Chicken Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup uncooked rice; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Cooking

I love making Creamy One Pot Chicken Rice because it’s a dish that always brings warmth and comfort to the table. The creamy texture and rich flavors are a delightful combination that makes every bite irresistible. With just one pot, the cleanup is a breeze, and it allows the chicken and rice to absorb all the delicious seasonings and juices. This recipe comes together smoothly in less than an hour, perfect for busy weeknights when I want something hearty and satisfying without too much fuss.

Created by

Flora Kensington

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:45:35.689Z

I remember the first time I made this Creamy One Pot Chicken Rice. The aroma filled my kitchen, and as I added the rice, I could already tell it was going to be a hit. I love how the chicken simmers while the rice absorbs all that rich flavor. Using a mixture of broth and cream gives the dish a luxurious texture that simply elevates a weeknight meal.

One of my favorite tips is to let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every spoonful even more flavorful. Plus, don’t hesitate to add your favorite veggies—broccoli or peas make a great addition!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Comforting creaminess that envelops each grain of rice
All made in one pot, making cleanup easy
Perfectly seasoned chicken that’s tender and juicy

      

Mastering the Creamy Texture

Achieving the perfect creamy texture in this dish hinges on the quality of the heavy cream used. I prefer a high-fat content cream for the richest flavor and silkiness, which enhances the overall taste of the dish. Make sure to stir in the cream just before serving to maintain its luscious consistency. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or yogurt, but keep in mind that it will alter the creaminess level slightly.

Another tip for ensuring a velvety finish is to let the rice rest for a few minutes after adding the cream. This step allows the rice to absorb some of the cream while reducing excess moisture. Look for a glossy appearance in the dish when serving; this indicates that the rice has fully embraced the creamy texture.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to customize this recipe, there are several ingredient substitutions that can work wonderfully. For a flavor boost, try adding a pinch of saffron or a bay leaf during the simmering stage. Vegetables like peas or bell peppers can also add color and nutrition—just toss them in with the chicken broth to ensure they cook through by the time the rice is done. Likewise, for a protein alternative, feel free to use diced turkey or even shrimp, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Additionally, if you're preparing this for dietary restrictions, you can easily make it gluten-free by using brown rice or a similar gluten-free grain. Just be sure to increase cooking time slightly—brown rice typically takes 40-45 minutes to cook. This flexibility makes the recipe adaptable to different dietary preferences while retaining its comforting core.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups chicken broth
1 cup uncooked rice
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a delicious and filling meal!

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5 minutes. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the rice, chicken broth, and the previously cooked chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.

Finish with Cream

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning if necessary. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra dimension of flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese before serving. It melts beautifully into the creamy sauce. Additionally, feel free to use brown rice
just adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers of Creamy One Pot Chicken Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, I recommend adding a splash of chicken broth or water before reheating to restore creaminess and prevent it from drying out. Heat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even warming. Avoid using high heat, as this can cause the rice to become mushy.

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing it without the cream and storing it as a base. Add the cream right before serving for optimal flavor and texture. This technique not only preserves the quality but also makes mealtime preparation even easier, allowing for more flexibility during busy weeknights.

Serving Suggestions

To make your Creamy One Pot Chicken Rice a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. This provides a nice contrast to the rich creaminess of the dish and enhances the meal's health quotient. A simple vinaigrette can add a zesty lift that beautifully complements the flavors of the chicken and rice.

For a more elevated dining experience, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also intensifies the flavor profile of the dish. If you want to experiment, a dash of lemon juice or zest can be stirred in for a refreshing brightness that balances the richness wonderfully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically takes around 40-45 minutes.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with mushrooms or your choice of veggies and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I freeze Creamy One Pot Chicken Rice?

Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but a light salad or steamed veggies would make a great side.