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; 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup frozen peas

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Plates

I love making Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice because it's not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. This dish allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping cleanup to a minimum. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice is simply irresistible. Plus, using just one pot means I can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying this hearty meal with my family. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when I want to impress without any stress.

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:49:35.716Z

One of my favorite culinary adventures involved perfecting this Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice. After several tries, I discovered that searing the chicken first creates a depth of flavor that complements the creamy sauce. I love using herbs like thyme and parsley to elevate the dish, and I’ve found that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens everything up beautifully.

Each time I make this dish, I experiment with different vegetables like spinach or peas, which not only add nutrition but also a splash of color. It’s always exciting to see how a few simple changes can create a new twist, making it a meal we crave time and again.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that coats every grain of rice beautifully
Simple preparation allows for maximum flavor with minimal effort
Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of ingredients in Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice is what makes it truly special. The chicken thighs are favored for their tenderness and juiciness, while the heavy cream creates that luxurious, creamy texture. It's essential to use high-quality chicken broth as well, since it provides the foundation for flavor throughout the dish. If you're looking to lighten it up, consider using half-and-half in place of heavy cream for a slightly thinner, yet still rich, result.

When it comes to the rice, long-grain white rice is recommended due to its ability to absorb flavors without becoming sticky. If you prefer a whole grain option, brown rice can be used, although you should increase the cooking time to about 35-40 minutes. The addition of frozen peas not only brings vibrant color, but they also provide a pop of freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Cooking Technique Tips

Searing the chicken properly is crucial for building flavor in this dish. Ensure your pot is hot enough before adding the chicken—if it sizzles immediately upon contact, you’re on the right track. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot when browning the chicken, as this will cause steaming instead of browning, leading to less flavor. A nice golden-brown crust typically indicates your chicken is ready to be removed.

One of the keys to this recipe is the layering of flavors. After sautéing the onions and garlic, you'll notice their fragrance fills the kitchen; this step is essential as it enhances the overall depth of the dish. Be careful not to overcook the onions; they should be softened but should still retain a bit of their structure. This adds both texture and sweetness, balancing the dish well.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas

Instructions

Steps

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the pot. Sear for 6-7 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from pot and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.

Combine and Cook

Return the seared chicken to the pot. Cover and let it cook for 20 minutes on low heat until the rice is tender.

Finish Up

Stir in the frozen peas, check seasoning, and add more salt and pepper if needed. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For a different flavor profile, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce or incorporating seasonal vegetables.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice is an excellent option for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply make sure to allow it to cool before sealing it in an airtight container. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to the pot on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure everything heats evenly without drying out.

If you'd like to freeze leftovers, portion them into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. This dish can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For serving, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the dish if you prefer a tangy contrast to the creamy sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.

Feel free to get creative with variations! You can easily switch up the protein by using diced chicken breasts, shrimp, or even plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. For added vegetables, try incorporating bell peppers or spinach just before serving for extra nutrition and color. Each of these substitutions will give this recipe your personal touch while maintaining its core essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the amount of liquid.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.