Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound chicken thighs, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup frozen peas; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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I absolutely love making Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice because it brings comfort to my table without the hassle of a complicated recipe. The creamy texture combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice creates a delightful meal that the whole family enjoys. It takes minimal prep time, and everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whenever I want a satisfying dish that feels decadent yet is simple to prepare, this is my go-to recipe!

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:03:35.512Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed by how easily the flavors melded together in just one pot. The secret is to sauté the chicken properly to create a nice caramelization that deepens the flavor. I was so surprised at how creamy and rich the dish turned out while only using basic ingredients!

This method also ensures the rice absorbs all those wonderful juices from the chicken, resulting in a deliciously cohesive meal. It’s these little details that make all the difference, and now it’s a staple in my kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy one-pot preparation
Creamy sauce that elevates the dish
Perfect for family meals or dinner guests

      

Key Techniques for Creaminess

The creamy texture of this dish largely comes from using Arborio rice, which is high in starch. This starch releases as the rice cooks, creating a natural creaminess that binds the sauce together. To maximize this effect, make sure you stir the rice occasionally while it simmers. This not only prevents sticking but helps develop that desirable creamy consistency. If you don’t have Arborio rice on hand, you can use another medium-grain rice, but be prepared for a slightly less rich dish.

Another key technique is the method of cooking the chicken and then returning it to the pot. Initially browning the chicken thighs develops a rich flavor through the Maillard reaction, which enhances the overall taste of the dish. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot while searing the chicken; this can trap steam and prevent that golden brown color. Cook in batches if necessary to get that perfect sear.

Ingredient Substitutions and Tips

If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. While this will alter the richness slightly, it still adds that creaminess you want without the extra calories. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream works well; however, be aware that it will impart a subtle coconut flavor that some may or may not prefer. Similarly, if you wish to add more vegetables or need to clean out your fridge, feel free to toss in carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini during the sautéing stage.

For added depth of flavor, incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish fantastically. Simply add a couple of sprigs when you return the chicken to the pot. If you're short on time or fresh herbs, dried versions can work, but streamline to about a teaspoon—they're more concentrated in flavor. This small addition can make the dish more aromatic and complex without much extra effort.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken thighs, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup frozen peas
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dish:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken thighs and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

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

Combine and Simmer

Stir in the Arborio rice to coat it with the oil, then add chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes.

Add Cream and Chicken

After 15 minutes, return the chicken to the pot, add heavy cream and peas. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until rice is creamy and tender.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the onions. This enhances the dish's richness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice makes for an excellent meal prep option. After cooking, let the dish cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore the creaminess as it reheats.

When making ahead, consider undercooking the rice slightly during the initial cooking phase. This is due to the grains absorbing moisture during storage and reheating. Reducing the cooking time initially ensures that your dish won’t become mushy when you reheat it later. Aim for a bite-worthy texture that maintains its integrity even after a few days in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing this dish with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to add a fresh crunch and balance out the creaminess. A light vinaigrette can lift the flavors and cleanse the palate. Additionally, garlic bread or crusty rolls would be perfect for scooping up the creamy rice, making it a filling and satisfying experience.

If you're entertaining or want to change up the presentation, try serving the dish in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of cheese and broiled until golden. This allows for a delightful, restaurant-style presentation that your guests will appreciate. Alternatively, you could include some lemon wedges on the side. The bright acidity of lemon adds a vibrant contrast to the dish’s richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, as brown rice requires more cooking.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.

→ What if I want to add vegetables?

Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, along with the rice.

→ Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats nicely!