Chicken and Rice: Easy Dinner Option for Busy Nights

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

When the day has been long and your energy is running low, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, creamy plate of chicken and rice. This one-pan wonder is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, flavorful sauce that brings everything together in perfect harmony. It’s hearty, satisfying, and loved by both kids and adults alike.

Chicken and rice is a timeless classic that’s endlessly adaptable, budget-friendly, and super simple to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch, this dish checks all the right boxes. Plus, it’s made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry or fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Rice

• One-pot simplicity: Less cleanup, more flavor.
• Creamy and comforting: The sauce hugs every grain of rice and piece of chicken.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Family-approved: Even picky eaters will go back for seconds.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thighs offer a bit more flavor and tenderness, but chicken breasts work beautifully too. Just make sure to sear them well to lock in the juices before they finish cooking with the rice. If you’re using bone-in pieces, adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

---

Ingredients for the Chicken and Rice

Every ingredient in this dish has a role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Let’s break it down:

• Chicken breasts or thighs – The main protein source, bringing tenderness and rich flavor.
• Long-grain white rice – Cooks evenly and absorbs all the creamy, savory sauce.
• Chicken broth – Adds depth and richness to the rice as it simmers.
• Heavy cream – Brings a luscious, velvety texture to the dish.
• Garlic and onion – The aromatic base that builds flavor from the beginning.
• Olive oil and butter – For searing the chicken and sautéing the aromatics.
• Frozen peas – A pop of color and sweetness, plus a little added nutrition.
• Salt, pepper, paprika – Essential seasonings for balanced taste.
• Fresh parsley – For garnish and a burst of freshness at the end.

How To Make the Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet, then sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add chopped onions and garlic. Cook until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it in the onion-garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer with Chicken

Place the seared chicken back into the skillet. Cover with a lid and let everything simmer on low heat for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Peas

Gently fold in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Let it simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes so the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy hot!

---

How to Serve and Store Chicken and Rice

This creamy chicken and rice dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet, when the sauce is still velvety and the rice fluffy. It’s a complete meal on its own, but also works great with a light side salad or some crusty bread for extra comfort.

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes.

To store, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain its creamy texture.

What to Serve With Chicken and Rice?

Garlic Roasted Green Beans

Their crisp-tender texture and garlicky flavor pair beautifully with the creamy rice.

Mixed Leaf Salad with Vinaigrette

A fresh green salad adds brightness and contrast.

Warm Dinner Rolls or Baguette

Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce in your bowl.

Roasted Carrots with Thyme

Sweet, earthy, and a colorful side to balance the meal.

Cucumber Yogurt Salad

A refreshing, cooling contrast to the richness of the dish.

Steamed Broccoli

Simple, nutritious, and easy to toss together while the main dish cooks.

Corn on the Cob

Adds sweetness and a little crunch for variety in texture.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook. Expect about 10-15 extra minutes and check for doneness before serving.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative. The taste will change slightly, but it will still be creamy and delicious.

Can I freeze chicken and rice?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a bit of broth or water to bring it back to life.

What vegetables can I add to the dish?
Feel free to mix in carrots, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly with the rice.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra veggies or swap in brown rice? Did your kids love it too?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

➡️ Find more easy dinner recipes on my Pinterest @ Meals We Share By Sally

Conclusion

Chicken and rice is more than just a quick meal—it’s a go-to comfort dish that brings everyone to the table. Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and simple prep make it a must-have for any busy night. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will never let you down.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?