Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet

Name: Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love making this Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet for dinner. It's a comforting dish that comes together in just one pan, saving me time on cleanup and letting me enjoy more moments at the table with my family. The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and fluffy rice creates a wholesome meal that's perfect for any weeknight. I often add a handful of fresh spinach or peas to the mix, elevating the flavors and nutrition while keeping things vibrant and delicious.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:09:36.075Z

When I first experimented with this dish, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together. I sautéed the chicken until golden brown, then added onion and garlic for that aromatic base. The key was to let the rice absorb the creamy sauce completely, creating a flavor-packed one-pan meal. It’s amazing how simple ingredients can turn into something so special!

Another tip I learned along the way is that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens up the entire dish, cutting through the richness beautifully. Garnishing with fresh herbs not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that comforts the soul
Easy one-pan cooking for minimal cleanup
Versatile recipe that allows for ingredient swaps

Ingredient Insights

Choosing the right chicken is crucial for this dish; boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for their quick cooking time and tenderness. However, you can also use thighs if you prefer a richer flavor and more moisture. Just remember that thighs may require a minute or two longer to cook through, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

The rice plays a vital role in absorbing the creamy sauce and enriching the dish's overall flavor. Long-grain white rice is suggested here for its fluffiness; however, if you want a whole grain alternative, consider brown rice. Just be aware that brown rice will take longer to cook, about 30-35 minutes, and you'll need to increase the broth quantity slightly to accommodate the longer cooking time.

Cooking Technique Tips

When sautéing the chicken, it's essential to use medium-high heat and not overcrowd the pan. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of browning. If you need to cook larger portions, work in batches to ensure each piece gets a nice golden color. This step is crucial because a good sear adds depth of flavor when combined with the creaminess of the sauce.

Stirring in the heavy cream at the end allows it to meld beautifully with the other ingredients without breaking. I recommend bringing the heat down to low after adding the cream; this prevents it from curdling and helps achieve a silky, rich sauce. If the mixture appears too thick or isn't creamy enough, don't hesitate to add a splash more cream or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a pop of color and nutrition, consider adding fresh spinach or peas as you stir in the heavy cream. Not only do they add a vibrant touch, but they also bring additional nutrients to the dish. Other great options include diced bell peppers or frozen corn, which can be added during the last few minutes of cooking for a touch of sweetness.

This dish also pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. If you want to make it heartier, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light steamed green like broccoli. The creamy chicken rice skillet can even be made ahead of time; just store it in the fridge for up to three days and reheat gently on the stove.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients:

Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Feel free to add vegetables such as peas or spinach for extra nutrition.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.

Make it Creamy

After 15 minutes, stir in the heavy cream. If needed, adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper. Allow to simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until creamy and thickened.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious meal with a side salad or crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, include a teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme or oregano when adding the broth.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftover Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to achieve the desired consistency. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cream to separate.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Portion it into smaller containers before freezing for easy individual servings. Just remember to allow the skillet to cool completely before sealing it. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove until heated through.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a dairy-free version, consider substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. This will provide a similar creamy texture while offering a different flavor profile. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick or rich.

For those interested in adding a burst of flavor, try seasoning the chicken with smoked paprika or Italian herbs during the sautéing phase. This can really elevate the taste profile. If you're looking to reduce carbs, swap the rice for cauliflower rice, ensuring to adjust cooking times accordingly as it takes much less time to cook.

Flavor Enhancements

To enhance the flavor profile of the dish, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the onion and garlic. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to cook off the alcohol before adding the rice. This extra step can add a nuanced depth that complements the creaminess beautifully.

For a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic and onion, or serve the dish with a side of hot sauce. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, adding toasted almond slices or pine nuts as a garnish can introduce a pleasant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically requires longer to cook.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the nutrition and flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.