Creamy Chicken And Rice One Pot Dinner

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice One Pot Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

I love creating meals that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, and this Creamy Chicken and Rice One Pot Dinner is one of my go-to recipes. In just 30 minutes, you can have a comforting, flavorful dish that the whole family will enjoy. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice makes for a satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup. Join me in discovering how simple it can be to enjoy a home-cooked meal without the stress!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:52:18.664Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I didn’t expect it to become a household favorite so quickly. The build-up of flavors from the sautéed onions and garlic paired with the creamy broth elevates the dish to comfort food heaven. One sure tip is to use a good quality chicken broth for a deeper flavor.

As I cooked, the enticing aroma filled my kitchen, making my family eagerly anticipate dinner. The addition of frozen peas at the end not only adds color but also a burst of freshness. It's the perfect one-pot meal for busy weeknights!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        One-pot convenience for easy cleanup
Creamy, comforting flavors in every bite
Quick preparation ensures a weeknight win

      

Choosing the Right Chicken

When it comes to selecting chicken for this dish, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best due to their quick cooking time and tender texture. Make sure they are diced into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. If you're looking for a slightly richer flavor, you can substitute with boneless chicken thighs, which can add a bit more moisture and depth to your cream sauce without significantly increasing cook time.

If you're short on time, you can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and add it at the end with the heavy cream and peas, cooking just until heated through. This substitution will cut your cooking time significantly, and you still achieve that satisfying creamy texture.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The heavy cream is crucial for creating that luscious, creamy sauce. To achieve the best consistency, let it simmer gently with the peas and chicken for about five minutes to meld the flavors together. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even chicken broth in place of some of the heavy cream, but keep in mind that it will lose some richness in flavor.

Be sure to adjust the seasoning after adding the cream. Flavors can become dulled when combined, so taste and add additional salt and pepper as needed. If you want a hint of tanginess, a splash of lemon juice can brighten the entire dish without overpowering the creamy elements, so don't be afraid to experiment.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup long-grain rice
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Combine and Cook

Add the rice to the pot, stirring for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.

Add Cream and Peas

Stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and mix well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the peas are heated through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some grated parmesan cheese on top just before serving. Also, feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp for a different but equally delicious protein option!

Make-Ahead Tips

This one-pot dinner is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the base of the dish—cooking the chicken, onions, and garlic—earlier in the week and store it in the fridge. When it's time to eat, simply add the rice and broth, and continue with the cooking steps. This can save you a significant amount of time during busy weeknights.

If you're looking to make a larger batch for leftovers, this recipe scales beautifully. Just increase the quantities of chicken, rice, and liquid while keeping the other ingredients proportional. Make sure to use a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume, allowing for even cooking and maximum flavor.

Serving Ideas

For a complete meal, I recommend serving this creamy chicken and rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. The crunchiness of green beans or a simple mixed greens salad can add a nice contrast to the creamy texture of the main dish, balancing out the meal nutritionally and texturally.

If you want to kick it up a notch, consider adding some freshly grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, on top just before serving. This will create a melty layer that complements the creaminess perfectly. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time. Follow package instructions for cooking times.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but the texture may differ slightly.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, carrots, or spinach.