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–+ servings
Easy creamy chicken and rice dish served in a bowl

Easy Creamy Chicken and Rice

A comforting and creamy chicken and rice dish that blends tender chicken with rich flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs or chicken breasts Tender meat
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds warmth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Provides depth
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Adds sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Offers mild smokiness

For Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking
  • 2 tablespoons butter Adds richness
  • 1 small onion, diced Provides texture and sweetness
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced For aromatic flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups chicken broth Adds moisture
  • 1 cup heavy cream Contributes creaminess
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Adds herbal notes
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley For freshness
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch Mixed with 1 tbsp water to thicken, if needed

For the Rice

  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice Provides structure
  • 3 cups water or chicken broth To cook rice

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, coating it evenly.
  • Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.

Cooking

  • Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Stir in the dried thyme and parsley, adjusting seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
  • Add the rice to the skillet, ensuring it is evenly distributed in the sauce.
  • Nestle the cooked chicken back into the skillet and pour in the remaining water or broth, ensuring the rice is covered.
  • Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  • If the sauce needs thickening, mix the cornstarch with water and stir it into the skillet, cooking for an additional minute.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning before turning off the heat. Let it rest before serving.

Notes

For best results, adjust seasonings throughout cooking, incorporate vegetables if desired, and store properly for leftovers.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1g
Keyword Chicken and Rice, comfort food, Creamy Dish, easy dinner, One-Pot Meal
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