Creamy Chicken and Rice
This creamy chicken and rice recipe is a comforting classic that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Spatula
- 1 Knife for chopping
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked white rice
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the rice to the pot and stir well to coat it with the oil and onion mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Once the rice has absorbed most of the liquid, return the chicken to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Cook for another 10-15 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley just before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serving
- Ladle the creamy chicken and rice into bowls and garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Storage
- Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Don't rush the browning process for the chicken; it adds depth to the dish.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option. Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if desired.
How to Serve: Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon zest for added flavor.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth if needed.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dish up to the point of adding cream and peas, then store in the fridge. When ready to eat, continue cooking with cream and peas until heated through.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option. Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if desired.
How to Serve: Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon zest for added flavor.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth if needed.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dish up to the point of adding cream and peas, then store in the fridge. When ready to eat, continue cooking with cream and peas until heated through.