If you’re craving a dinner that combines comforting creaminess with hearty, satisfying flavors, the Creamy Chicken and Rice One Pot Dinner Recipe is your ticket to soul-soothing satisfaction. This dish flawlessly blends tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a rich, velvety sauce into one harmonious pot, making mealtime both effortless and delightful. Its simplicity hides a depth of flavor, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights when you want something special without fussing over multiple pans. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Chicken and Rice One Pot Dinner Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role – from building the rich sauce and tender texture to adding freshness and that perfect punch of flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps brown the chicken and soften the vegetables while adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Brings creaminess and depth to the base with its luscious, mellow flavor.
- Yellow onion, finely diced (1 medium): Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Carrots, grated (2 medium): Add natural sweetness and a subtle crunch that enhances both color and texture.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs (1 1/2 pounds), cut into 1-inch pieces: Stay tender and juicy during cooking for maximum flavor and comfort.
- Salt (2 teaspoons, divided): Balances and intensifies all the savory elements perfectly.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat to brighten the dish’s overall flavor.
- Bay leaves (2 whole): Infuse a subtle earthy aroma that elevates the stew-like qualities.
- Chicken broth (5 cups total – 1 cup plus 4 cups hot, low sodium): Creates a flavorful, well-seasoned cooking liquid that deeply enriches the rice and chicken.
- Jasmine rice (2 cups, not rinsed): Provides a fluffy, aromatic grain that absorbs all those delicious flavors.
- Garlic (1 whole head): Roasts gently in the pot, infusing the dish with mellow, sweet garlic undertones.
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (1/3 cup): Adds a fresh, herbaceous pop and beautiful color contrast at the end.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Melts into the dish for creamy richness and a touch of savory umami.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice One Pot Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by warming olive oil and butter in a large heavy pot over medium heat until they’re melted and shimmering, creating a luscious base. Then add finely diced onion and grated carrots along with 1 teaspoon of salt, cooking gently for about 8 minutes until the veggies soften and gain a lovely light golden hue. This step layers in natural sweetness and builds the flavor foundation you’ll taste in every bite.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Next, toss in the chicken pieces, sprinkle the remaining salt and black pepper, and add the bay leaves. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns lightly golden brown. This not only seals in juicy moisture but also adds a satisfying depth of flavor that sets this recipe apart from your average chicken and rice meal.
Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and simmer on high heat, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any caramelized bits stuck to it. Let the broth reduce mostly, concentrating all those delicious browned flavors into the sauce. This technique ensures every bite bursts with rich, savory goodness.
Step 4: Add Broth, Rice, and Garlic
Stir in the remaining 4 cups of hot chicken broth and the uncooked jasmine rice. Slice off the top of the whole garlic head to expose the cloves and nestle it cut side down into the center of the pot. This slow-roasting garlic delivers a sweet, mellow aroma that gently permeates the entire dish, adding complexity without overwhelming.
Step 5: Cook Until Creamy and Tender
Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. The rice soaks up all the flavors perfectly and the chicken becomes tender, making the dish luxuriously creamy and comforting.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Herbs
Once off the heat, carefully remove and discard the bay leaves and garlic head. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley until everything is creamy, well-combined, and bursting with fresh, cheesy flavor that truly elevates this one pot dinner to restaurant-worthy status.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice One Pot Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling additional Parmesan and a bit more chopped parsley on top just before serving adds a lovely fresh pop of color and extra cheesiness that makes each plate shine. A drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper can also add that little something special if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This dish stands strong on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or simple steamed vegetables can introduce refreshing contrasts that balance the richness wonderfully. Garlic roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans also make perfect vibrant sides.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the creamy chicken and rice in rustic bowls topped with microgreens or edible flowers for a restaurant feel at home. Alternatively, spoon portions into hollowed-out bell peppers or baked tomatoes for charming, colorful presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover creamy chicken and rice quickly, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for planning ahead or enjoying as a quick lunch.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, but to preserve the creamy texture, freeze portions without the fresh parsley or cheese, as they can change consistency upon thawing. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the rice and revive that luscious creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the dish tender and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs remain juicier and more flavorful in this dish, chicken breasts can be used if preferred—just watch the cooking time carefully as breasts cook more quickly and risk drying out.
Do I need to rinse the jasmine rice?
In this recipe, you don’t need to rinse the rice. Leaving the natural starches intact helps create that creamy texture as it cooks with the other ingredients.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and no additives, this Creamy Chicken and Rice One Pot Dinner Recipe is naturally gluten-free and safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Feel free to toss in peas, mushrooms, or spinach near the end of cooking for added texture and nutrition. Just be mindful of their cooking times to avoid mushiness.
What’s the best way to tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest method is to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. The pieces should look opaque and tender, easily pierced with a fork.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Rice One Pot Dinner Recipe truly embodies comfort food perfection with its rich flavors and hassle-free cooking. It’s a wonderful dish to share with loved ones on busy nights or whenever you want a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and savor every creamy, delicious spoonful. Trust me, it’s going to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Rice One Pot Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy chicken and rice one pot dinner is a comforting and rich meal that’s easy to prepare using simple pantry staples. Featuring tender chicken thighs, fragrant jasmine rice, and a luscious blend of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this dish delivers a family-friendly dinner that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
Fats and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Vegetables
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 1 whole head garlic
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
Proteins
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 inch pieces
Liquids
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 cups hot low sodium chicken broth
Grains
- 2 cups jasmine rice (not rinsed)
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat fats: Heat the olive oil and unsalted butter together in a large heavy pot over medium heat until they are melted and shimmering, which provides a flavorful base for cooking the vegetables and chicken.
- Cook vegetables: Add the finely diced onion and grated carrots to the pot along with 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook for about 8 minutes until the vegetables soften and turn lightly golden, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Brown chicken: Add the cut chicken thigh pieces, remaining salt, black pepper, and bay leaves to the pot. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, sealing in the juices and building flavor.
- Deglaze pot: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and increase heat to high to simmer. Scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits and continue simmering until the liquid is mostly reduced, concentrating the flavors.
- Add rice and broth: Stir in the remaining hot chicken broth along with the jasmine rice. Ensure the rice is evenly distributed in the pot for consistent cooking.
- Add garlic head: Cut the top off the whole garlic head to expose the cloves and place it cut side down in the center of the pot; this infuses a subtle garlic flavor during cooking.
- Simmer rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaves and garlic head. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and finely chopped parsley until the dish becomes creamy and well combined. Serve hot once the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Notes
- Do not rinse the jasmine rice before cooking to maintain its natural starch, which helps create the creamy texture.
- Using boneless skinless chicken thighs adds richness and tenderness to the dish.
- Cutting the garlic head and cooking it whole infuses garlic flavor subtly without overpowering the dish.
- Check the chicken internal temperature to ensure it has reached 165°F for safe consumption.
- If you prefer, you can substitute parsley with fresh cilantro for a different herbal note.
- This meal can be prepared in one pot, making cleanup easier after cooking.
