Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet

Name: Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup rice (long-grain or jasmine); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet on busy weeknights. It's a one-pan meal that combines tender chicken with flavorful rice and a rich, creamy sauce. This dish not only satisfies my cravings for comfort food but also makes clean-up a breeze. The best part? It comes together in 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when I need a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, your family will request this dish time and time again!

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:13:35.666Z

When I first created this Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet, I wanted a dish that could combine flavor with simplicity. The trick lies in using one pan and allowing the rice to absorb all the delicious broth while cooking, giving it a rich, savory taste that’s hard to resist. I often experiment with herbs and spices to add my own twist!

One tip I’ve mastered is stirring the rice occasionally to prevent it from sticking. It ensures the grains remain fluffy and combined with the creamy sauce, creates a delightful texture. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra vegetables for a wholesome meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich creamy texture that coats the chicken and rice perfectly
A quick, satisfying meal ideal for weeknight dinners
Versatile enough to add your favorite vegetables or spices

Cooking Technique Tips

The key to achieving perfectly cooked chicken in this dish is to ensure your skillet is preheated properly. I recommend using a medium-high heat, allowing the olive oil to shimmer before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the meat quickly, locking in moisture and flavor. Watch for golden-brown edges; this will take about 5-7 minutes. If you're unsure, use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

When adding garlic, it's crucial to monitor it closely to prevent burning. Burnt garlic turns bitter, which can negatively affect the overall flavor of your creamy skillet dish. Stir it in just before adding the rice and stock; this allows the garlic to soften and release its aroma without lingering too long over the heat.

Ingredient Insights

Using long-grain or jasmine rice provides a fragrant base for your dish, but it's important to note that different types of rice may require adjustments in cooking time. For instance, brown rice generally takes longer to cook and absorbs more liquid. If you prefer brown rice, increase the broth by ½ cup and extend the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it remains tender without becoming mushy.

Heavy cream is ideal for achieving that luscious, creamy texture in this recipe, but if you're looking for a lighter alternative, consider using half-and-half or even coconut milk. These substitutes can provide a different flavor profile while still delivering a creamy consistency. Just be aware that if you use a thinner liquid, you may want to adjust the cooking time to account for the extra moisture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup rice (long-grain or jasmine)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are measured and ready to go before starting.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy chicken rice skillet:

Cook the Chicken

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

Add the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Stir in Rice and Broth

Add the rice, chicken broth, and bring to a gentle boil. Cover and reduce the heat to low, cooking for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender.

Add Cream and Vegetables

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas and carrots. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through and well combined.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. For extra flavor, you can also use garlic powder or Italian seasoning in the cooking process.

Storage and Reheating

This Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet is excellent for meal prep. If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat while stirring occasionally. If you find it too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the dish. Place the cooled skillet meal in freezer-safe containers, and it can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it on the stovetop. The creaminess will still hold up, providing you with a quick and satisfying meal.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli work wonderfully and can be tossed in during the last 3-5 minutes of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture. Experimenting with spices can also elevate the dish; a pinch of paprika, Italian herbs, or even curry powder can introduce new flavor dimensions.

If you're looking to infuse some zest, consider squeezing in fresh lemon juice just before serving. It brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cream. You can also top with grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an added kick, tailoring the dish to your family’s preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and may need to add more liquid.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or stovetop when ready to eat.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This can be a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread.

→ How can I make it healthier?

You can use low-fat cream or substitute a portion of the cream with chicken broth to reduce calories and fat.