What ingredients do I need to make creamy chicken and rice?

To make creamy chicken and rice, you typically need chicken breasts or thighs, white rice, chicken broth, heavy cream or milk, butter, garlic, onion, and a blend of seasonings such as salt, pepper, and thyme. Some recipes include Parmesan cheese or cream cheese for extra richness. Fresh or dried herbs like parsley can also add flavor. These ingredients combine to create a comforting, creamy texture with tender chicken and fluffy rice.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy in creamy chicken and rice?

To avoid mushy rice, use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio, usually about 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of broth or liquid. Cook the rice on low heat and avoid stirring too much during cooking as this breaks down the rice and releases starch, causing it to become sticky. Use long-grain white rice known for staying separate when cooked. Also, adding the cream or milk toward the end helps maintain a creamy consistency without overcooking the rice.

Can I make creamy chicken and rice in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, creamy chicken and rice can be made in both slow cookers and Instant Pots. For slow cookers, combine raw chicken, rice, broth, and seasonings, cooking on low for 3-4 hours. Add the cream or cheese about 30 minutes before serving to prevent curdling. In an Instant Pot, sauté the chicken first, then add rice and liquid. Cook under pressure for about 10 minutes and naturally release the pressure before stirring in cream or cheese. These appliances help tenderize chicken and infuse flavors efficiently.

Is creamy chicken and rice a healthy meal option?

Creamy chicken and rice can be a balanced meal depending on the ingredients used. Chicken is a good protein source, and rice provides carbohydrates. Using low-fat milk or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream reduces fat content. Adding vegetables like peas, spinach, or broccoli boosts fiber and vitamins. Controlling seasoning and avoiding excess salt ensures a healthier dish. For a lighter version, consider brown rice for added fiber and nutrients, but adjust liquid quantities accordingly.

How long can I store creamy chicken and rice leftovers in the fridge?

Leftover creamy chicken and rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it down quickly after cooking to prevent bacterial growth. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess and heat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid freezing creamy chicken and rice, as the texture may change when thawed due to the dairy content.

Creamy Chicken And Rice One Pot Recipe For Easy Dinners

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American-Italian
Ingredients: – 1.5 pounds chicken cut into 1-inch pieces for tenderness; – 4 tablespoons butter sautés aromatics and adds flavor; – 1 large onion diced; – 3 garlic cloves minced; – 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; – 1/2 teaspoon pepper; – 1 teaspoon salt; – 2 1/2 cups chicken broth; – 1 cup uncooked long grain rice creates the creamy base; – 1/2 cup heavy cream; – 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese; – Parsley for garnish

Description

🍗 This Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice delivers a hearty, flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup.
🧄 Combining tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and creamy Parmesan, it’s a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

– 1.5 pounds chicken cut into 1-inch pieces for tenderness

– 4 tablespoons butter sautés aromatics and adds flavor

– 1 large onion diced

– 3 garlic cloves minced

– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

– 1/2 teaspoon pepper

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 2 1/2 cups chicken broth

– 1 cup uncooked long grain rice creates the creamy base

– 1/2 cup heavy cream

– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

– Parsley for garnish

Instructions

1-First, heat the 4 tablespoons of butter in your skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 large diced onion and sauté for a few minutes until it softens, then toss in the 3 minced garlic cloves late to avoid burning and keep that fresh flavor.

2-Next, add the 1.5 pounds of chicken cut into 1-inch pieces, along with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt; cook until the chicken browns, about 5-7 minutes.

3-Once the chicken is ready, stir in 1 cup of uncooked long grain rice and pour in 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 17-20 minutes until the rice is tender.

4-Finally, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese to create that creamy finish, and add optional parsley for a pop of color. This process yields about 4 servings and takes roughly 30 minutes total.

Notes

🧄 Add garlic late in the cooking process to prevent burning and maintain its flavor.
🍲 Use a large skillet with a tight-fitting lid to ensure even cooking.
🍴 Stir in Parmesan and cream at the end for a rich, creamy texture without overcooking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: American-Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 300 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Fat: 31 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g
Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 43 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 46 g
Cholesterol: 115 mg

Keywords: One Pot, Chicken and Rice, Creamy Parmesan, Easy Dinner