One Pot Creamy Chicken Rice

Name: One Pot Creamy Chicken Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Collection

I love whipping up One Pot Creamy Chicken Rice for its comforting flavors and effortless preparation. This dish is a staple in our household, combining tender chicken with creamy rice, all cooked in a single pot. It's incredibly satisfying and perfect for busy weeknights when I want something hearty without the hassle of multiple pans. Plus, leftovers are just as delightful the next day, making it a winner in my book!

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:05:35.048Z

When I first tried making creamy chicken rice all in one pot, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together beautifully. The key is to sear the chicken first, allowing those golden bits to infuse the rice as it cooks. This method truly elevates the dish, giving it depth without extra effort.

I’ve found that using a mix of chicken thighs and breasts provides the best flavor and moisture balance. Also, adding a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the dish and keeps it from feeling too heavy.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that envelops tender chicken pieces
One pot means easy cleanup and minimal fuss
Rich flavors that come together with just a few ingredients

The Importance of Ingredients

Using high-quality chicken thighs is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in One Pot Creamy Chicken Rice. Thighs have a higher fat content compared to chicken breasts, which keeps them moist during the cooking process. This fat also enhances the richness of the dish when combined with the creamy sauce. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute with chicken breast, but be cautious not to overcook it as it may dry out.

Frozen peas are not only a convenience but they also add sweetness and a burst of color to the dish. Fresh peas can be used if available, but their cooking time differs; add them towards the end to avoid mushiness. Balancing the texture from the creamy rice, tender chicken, and the slight crunch of peas creates a delightful mouthfeel that is integral to the dish’s overall appeal.

Techniques for Perfecting Creamy Rice

For the rice to turn out perfectly creamy, it’s essential to follow the proper cooking method. After you add the rice and broth to the pot, be sure to stir it once to prevent sticking, then let it rest undisturbed. This allows the rice to absorb the liquid evenly. If using a heavier pot, like a Dutch oven, consider reducing the heat slightly to avoid browning the bottom too much, which can introduce burnt flavors.

When incorporating the heavy cream, it’s important to do so slowly after the rice has absorbed the liquid, allowing the cream to meld perfectly without curdling. Heat the mixture gently and stir until everything is glossy and heated through. You want a creamy consistency that coats each grain without being overly soupy, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Once you’ve gathered all your ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your One Pot Creamy Chicken Rice:

Sear the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high 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 Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat with the oil. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Return the chicken to the pot, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

Add Cream and Peas

Once the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring gently until everything is warmed through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Your One Pot Creamy Chicken Rice is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of fresh spinach towards the end of cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One Pot Creamy Chicken Rice is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can cook it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to the pot to restore the creamy texture as reheating can thicken the sauce. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until warmed through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

If you plan to freeze leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. This dish can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, it's best to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop as mentioned earlier. Keep an eye on the consistency, and adjust with more cream or broth as needed.

Flavor Variations and Additions

Don’t hesitate to mix up the flavors in One Pot Creamy Chicken Rice! Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an earthy touch. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or use a spicy chicken broth. You can also experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary, which can enhance the aromatic profile of the dish.

For a unique twist on presentation, serve the creamy chicken rice topped with crispy onion rings or toasted nuts. This adds a delightful crunch and elevates the dish to new culinary heights. A sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving can also brighten the flavors, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter option.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container, and it will keep well for up to three months.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to mix in vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to boost the nutritional content.