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: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup spinach (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Bliss

I love making creamy one pot chicken and rice when I'm short on time but still want to create a comforting meal. With every bite, the rich flavors of chicken and savory herbs blend together with creamy rice, making it impossible to resist. This dish comes together effortlessly in one pot, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying dinner with my family. I also find it incredibly satisfying to customize with whatever vegetables I have on hand, turning a simple recipe into something entirely unique every time.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:29:36.158Z

When I first tried one pot chicken and rice, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such a delicious meal with minimal effort. The technique of simmering the chicken with the rice allows the flavors to meld perfectly, resulting in a dish that's both creamy and full of flavor. By using broth instead of water, I ensure every spoonful is rich and comforting.

One of my favorite tricks is to add a handful of fresh spinach or kale at the end of cooking, which not only boosts the nutrition but also adds a lovely color contrast. This playful combination of ingredients truly makes me feel like a kitchen pro without spending hours over the stove.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pot convenience means less cleanup and more time to relax
Rich, creamy texture that's perfect for a family dinner
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or spices

Ingredient Breakdown and Substitutions

The primary protein in this dish is chicken thighs, known for their rich flavor and juicy texture. If you're looking for a leaner option, boneless chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind they may dry out more easily. Cook them slightly less, just until they're no longer pink in the center. Additionally, the heavy cream contributes to the dish's creamy consistency; for a lighter alternative, you could use half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.

Rice plays a crucial role in absorbing the flavors of the chicken and broth. While long-grain rice works beautifully here, you could experiment with other varieties, such as basmati or jasmine, though cooking times may vary slightly. For a heartier twist, consider substituting some or all of the rice with quinoa, adjusting the broth quantity because quinoa absorbs more liquid than rice does.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Sautéing the onions until they are translucent is key to building flavor. This step enhances the dish by creating a sweet base, and the timing is essential; aim for about 5-7 minutes over medium heat. When adding the garlic, be careful not to brown it, as it can turn bitter. The aromatic combination of sautéed onion and garlic sets the stage for the chicken to brown beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

When it comes to cooking the rice, monitoring the simmer is crucial. After bringing the chicken broth to a boil, reducing the heat to low ensures that the rice cooks gently without burning or sticking to the pot. Always keep the pot covered during this stage to trap steam; this helps the rice achieve a tender texture. If you find the rice isn't cooking evenly, give it a quick stir halfway through, but avoid lifting the lid too often.

Storage and Serving Tips

If you have leftovers, this creamy chicken and rice dish stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Heat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If you want to freeze it, do so without adding the spinach, as it can become mushy. Freeze in airtight containers, and it should last about 2-3 months.

This dish makes a fantastic base for weekday meals and pairs well with various sides. Try serving it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. To elevate your presentation, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving adds a fresh touch. It’s a versatile recipe that can be dressed up for dinner parties or simplified for family weeknights.

Ingredients

For the dish

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup spinach (optional)

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot and cook until browned on both sides.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice and thyme, making sure to coat the rice well. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.

Finish with Cream

After the rice is tender, stir in the heavy cream and spinach (if using). Adjust seasoning if necessary, cover again, and let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve with

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the chicken in your favorite herbs or spices beforehand. I often prefer to serve this dish with a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your vegetable preferences or seasonal produce. Popular additions include diced bell peppers, carrots, or peas, which can be stirred in when adding the rice. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth.

If you're a fan of different cuisines, you could incorporate spices like curry powder or paprika for unique flavor profiles. Adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives can also give a Mediterranean twist. These changes not only make the dish exciting but also help utilize what you have in your pantry.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your rice isn’t cooking properly, it may be due to the heat being too low or insufficient liquid. Always ensure that the broth is at a rolling boil before reducing the heat, and consider increasing the broth by ¼ cup if the rice seems too dry. If after all the cooking time, the rice still appears undercooked, you can add a bit more liquid, cover, and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Another common issue is a too-thick or clumpy sauce once cream is added. If you notice this, try incorporating extra broth or a splash of water gradually into the pot while stirring. This will help achieve the creamy consistency expected without sacrificing the dish's integrity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Increase the broth to 2.5 cups and simmer for about 40 minutes.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ What vegetables can I add to this dish?

You can incorporate vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or carrots. Just add them in with the rice and broth.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.