Description
Creamy Chicken & Rice is the ultimate comfort food — tender chicken and fluffy rice cooked together in a rich, creamy sauce with herbs and veggies. It’s a cozy, satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until lightly browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it in the oil and aromatics for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add thyme and stir to combine.
- Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in the peas and carrots, then add Parmesan cheese. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a faster prep time.
- Substitute brown rice, but increase the cooking time and liquid slightly.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for a bright flavor twist.
- This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American