Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup rice (white or brown); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup frozen peas

Highlighted under: Comfort Classics Reimagined

I absolutely love making this Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice! It's one of those comforting dishes that not only tastes incredible but also saves you from the hassle of washing multiple pots. The luscious creaminess combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice makes for a wonderfully satisfying meal. Plus, the aromas that fill my kitchen while it cooks are simply irresistible. I promise you’ll want to make this dish again and again!

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:05:35.840Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a creamy and flavorful dish. I used a blend of chicken thighs for their moistness, which blended beautifully with the other flavors. One tip I discovered is to let the chicken brown a bit before adding any liquids; this enhances the overall taste immensely!

As I continued to refine the recipe, I found that adding just a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the dish without overpowering it. This is now a staple in my kitchen, transforming mealtime into something special with minimal effort.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture you can't resist
One-pot convenience makes for easy cleanup
Flavorful dish perfect for family gatherings

Mastering the Cooking Process

Getting the browning of the chicken just right is a crucial step for this dish. When you season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika, ensure that the oil is hot enough to sizzle when you add them. This helps develop that beautiful golden crust, locking in moisture and flavor. Aim for about 5 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If the chicken begins to steam rather than brown, increase the heat slightly.

When you add the rice to the pot, it's important to ensure it's thoroughly mixed with the chicken and aromatics. This allows it to absorb the flavors more effectively and contributes to a more cohesive dish. If you're using brown rice, be aware it will take longer to cook—think about 35-40 minutes instead of the usual 20. You'll know it's done when the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

The heavy cream in this recipe not only adds a luscious, creamy texture but also richness that flavors the rice and chicken beautifully. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half or coconut milk can work, though the flavor profile will change slightly. Just be cautious; if substituting with a low-fat option, it might not create the same level of creaminess, so I recommend adjusting the quantity based on your desired consistency.

Incorporating frozen peas towards the end of cooking gives a nice pop of color and flavor. They also add a hint of sweetness that balances the richness of the dish. If you prefer other vegetables, consider using chopped carrots or even fresh spinach. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly—carrots will take longer to soften, while spinach wilts quickly and should be added in the last couple of minutes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup rice (white or brown)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup frozen peas

Now that you have everything ready, let's cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice:

Brown the chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until they are soft. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika, then add them to the pot. Brown the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side.

Add rice and broth

Once the chicken is browned, stir in the rice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Cook

Cover the pot and let it cook for 20 minutes on low heat, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Add peas

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas. Adjust seasoning if needed, and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try garnishing with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving. It's also delicious with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice can be a great make-ahead meal. After cooking, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen it up and retain creaminess.

If you're considering freezing leftovers, be advised that the texture may change slightly when reheated. To freeze, let the dish cool before portioning into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, it's best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before warming it gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. The brightness of a citrus vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the chicken and rice beautifully. Additionally, feel free to serve it with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

For a fun twist, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs over the finished dish, such as parsley or thyme. Not only does it add vibrant color, but fresh herbs also elevate the flavors, giving a fresher taste to the creamy richness. If you want to add a little zing, a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors tremendously.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but brown rice typically takes longer to cook. You may need to adjust the broth and cooking time accordingly.

→ What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half and half or even milk, but the sauce won't be as rich and creamy.

→ Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. Just ensure they are cut small for even cooking.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.