Creamy Chicken and Rice
Creamy Chicken and Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender chicken with creamy, rich rice. The simplicity of the ingredients, such as chicken, rice, broth, and seasonings, creates a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. With a velvety sauce and savory chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It's easy to customize by adding vegetables like peas or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the rice to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, and parsley. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with the Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is creamy and well-combined.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best, but you can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick alternative.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice is the standard choice, but feel free to use brown rice or even wild rice for a healthier variation. Cooking times may vary with different rice types.
- Creaminess: The creaminess can come from heavy cream, sour cream, or a mix of cream cheese and broth. For a lighter version, opt for low-fat milk or Greek yogurt.
- Add-ins: Customize the dish by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms.
- Cheese: Adding shredded cheese like Parmesan or cheddar on top can enhance the flavor and add richness.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day lunches.