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: 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love whipping up this Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet for dinner! It's a one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a luscious cream sauce. The best part? It can be ready in just 30 minutes! Each bite is packed with flavor, and it's an easy way to impress family or friends on a busy night. I'm always left feeling satisfied and happy when I serve this dish, knowing everyone will enjoy it as much as I do.

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:49:35.824Z

I loved creating this Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet because it combines my love for comfort food with the ease of a one-pan dish. During my busy evenings, I crave something that’s quick yet satisfying, and this recipe delivers just that. The creamy sauce is enriched with herbs, which adds a delightful layer of flavor.

What I found to be particularly effective is the technique of using chicken thighs for tenderness, along with incorporating fresh vegetables. It not only enhances the dish's nutrition but also its overall texture, making every bite deliciously creamy and rich.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich in creamy flavors that envelop every piece of chicken
A comforting mix of protein and carbohydrates all in one dish
Perfect for weeknight dinners that require minimal cleanup

Perfecting Your Chicken

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken in this Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet, it’s crucial to cut the chicken thighs into uniform bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows for maximum flavor absorption from the spices. When sautéing, wait until the edges begin to turn golden brown before removing them from the skillet—about 5 minutes is just right. If the chicken starts to stick, a splash of broth can help lift it without compromising the crispness.

Seasoning before cooking is vital. The combination of thyme and paprika not only adds depth but also enhances the dish's overall richness. If you're looking for a twist, consider substituting dried oregano for thyme or using smoked paprika for an added earthy touch. Always taste your chicken after cooking; a pinch more salt or a dash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors beautifully.

Rice Cooking Tips

Cooking rice can often be tricky, but in this skillet, it's straightforward. When you stir the uncooked rice into the sautéed vegetables, make sure every grain is coated with the oil and flavors from the skillet—that’s where the taste truly develops. Allow the chicken broth to come to a rolling boil before lowering the heat; this quick burst of heat helps the rice start cooking properly.

Avoid lifting the lid while the rice simmers for 15 minutes. This allows steam to build up, ensuring the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the liquid. If your rice isn’t tender after the allotted time, add a tablespoon of additional broth or water and cover it again for a few more minutes. This technique will save you from overcooked or undercooked rice.

Finishing Touches

Once you incorporate the heavy cream, you'll notice the dish transform into a rich, luxurious texture; stirring until combined allows the flavors to meld perfectly. For a little extra flavor, you might add a splash of white wine before incorporating the cream—just let it simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol, leaving behind a deeper taste profile.

If you're making this in advance, consider storing the dish without cream. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently and stir in the cream to maintain that silky texture. You can also add a handful of grated Parmesan cheese once you add the cream for an extra layer of richness. This dish is delightful served with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up all the creamy goodness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful meal:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup broccoli florets
1/2 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped before you start cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Add Cream and Chicken

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and the cooked chicken pieces. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.

Serve your Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top before serving. This will enhance the creaminess and add a savory element to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet, garnish it with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving. The vibrant color not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh flavor contrast. If you want a bit of zest, a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the creamy sauce, making each bite pop with freshness.

You can also customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables. Consider incorporating spinach or bell peppers; they not only add color but also nutritional value. If you're using frozen vegetables, toss them in towards the end of cooking to ensure they warm through without becoming mushy.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating on the stovetop is recommended, as it helps maintain the creamy texture—simply add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce while warming it over medium heat. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.

This dish can also be frozen, but it's best to do so before adding the cream. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat thoroughly, and fold in the cream just before serving for optimal texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and use more liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and rice separately and combine them when you're ready to serve.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, peas, or carrots based on your preference and what you have available.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the dish in an airtight container; just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.