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: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Food Favorites

I love making this Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice when I need a comforting and satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. The process is quick and easy, but the flavor is anything but basic. Using just one pot means less clean-up, and the creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and fluffy rice. Plus, it’s packed with flavor from the seasoning and herbs, making it a family favorite for weeknight dinners. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:01:36.025Z

When I first tried one-pot meals, I was skeptical about how much flavor could really come from just a few ingredients. However, making this Creamy One Pot Chicken and Rice changed my perspective. The combination of cooking the chicken right in the rice allows the flavors to blend perfectly, creating a deliciously creamy dish everyone loves. I remember the first time I cooked this, and my kids couldn't get enough of it!

One tip I’ve learned over time is to use a good quality broth. It really enhances the overall taste. Plus, let the mixture rest for a few minutes after cooking; it allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture. Trust me, every bite will be worth it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that warms the soul
One pot means minimal clean-up
Packed with flavors your family will adore

Understanding the Ingredients

The chicken thighs used in this recipe are not only flavorful but also remain moist and tender during cooking, making them a great choice for a one-pot dish. If you prefer chicken breasts, consider reducing the cooking time, as they cook faster and can dry out more easily. Opting for bone-in or skin-on chicken can also provide a deeper flavor, though it may require longer cooking to ensure tenderness.

The heavy cream adds a luxurious texture to the dish, creating a rich and creamy sauce that coats the rice beautifully. For a lighter option, you could substitute half-and-half or even whole milk; just be mindful that the sauce may not be as thick or indulgent. Additionally, using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the salt level effectively, ensuring that the dish is seasoned just to your taste.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Searing the chicken thighs is crucial for developing a deep, savory flavor. Look for a golden brown crust on each side before removing them from the pot. If the fond (brown bits) at the bottom of the pot is too dark, deglaze with a splash of chicken broth after sautéing the onions to incorporate all that flavor into your sauce. This step adds complexity and depth to the final dish.

Once you add the rice and liquids, ensure you stir well to prevent clumping; this step allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb the flavors. Keep an eye on the simmering process, as too high of a heat can cause the sauce to evaporate too quickly. A gentle simmer with the lid on will create the perfect environment for the rice to fluff up and soak in all the creaminess while the chicken continues to cook tender.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Brown the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the pot, stirring it with the onions. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and paprika. Stir everything well to combine.

Simmer

Return the chicken to the pot, placing it on top of the rice mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Once the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender, fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some diced bell peppers or spinach towards the end of cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy One Pot Chicken and Rice is fantastic for meal prepping. You can cook it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just ensure you cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain texture and prevent spoilage. When ready to eat, gently reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.

If you have leftovers, they can last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of liquid for creaminess.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to customize the flavor profile by adding different herbs or spices according to your family's preferences. For an Italian twist, add Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and finish with grated Parmesan. You could also introduce vegetables such as spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for an added nutritional boost and color.

If you're seeking a bit of heat, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes; this will give the dish an exciting kick without overpowering its creamy base. Additionally, for a healthier spin, swap out half of the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice, adjusting the liquid accordingly for successful cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the broth and simmer time accordingly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge until ready to cook.

→ Are there any substitutes for heavy cream?

You can use full-fat coconut milk or a cream alternative if you're looking for a lighter option.