Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 55 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 175  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet is a rich, comforting one-pan meal made with tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a velvety garlic cream sauce. Ready in under an hour, this easy stovetop dinner is family-friendly, budget-conscious, and perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor and simple pantry ingredients, it’s the ultimate comfort food that delivers both creaminess and satisfying texture in every bite.

Ingredients
    For the Chicken
  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • For the Rice Base
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed and drained)
  • 1 small onion (finely diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup whole milk
  • 0.5 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • 0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp dried oregano
    • Optional Add-Ins
  • 0.5 cup mushrooms (sliced)
  • 0.5 cup green peas
  • 0.5 cup spinach (chopped)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
    Season the Chicken
  1. 1
    In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Toss well to coat every piece evenly. This step ensures the chicken is flavorful from the inside out.
    2. Sear the Chicken
  2. 2
    Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden and about 80% cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. It will finish cooking later.
    3. Build the Flavor Base
  3. 3
    In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. If using mushrooms, add them at this stage and cook until slightly tender.
    4. Toast the Rice
  4. 4
    Add the rinsed rice to the skillet. Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast the grains. This enhances the nutty flavor and helps the rice maintain texture.
    5. Add Liquids and Simmer
  5. 5
    Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk. Stir gently to combine. Add dried thyme and oregano. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  6. 6
    Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15–18 minutes until the rice absorbs most of the liquid and becomes tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
    7. Return the Chicken
  7. 7
    Once the rice is nearly cooked, return the chicken to the skillet along with any juices. Add peas or spinach if using. Cover again and cook for another 5–7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is creamy.
    8. Add Cheese and Finish
  8. 8
    Turn off the heat. Stir in mozzarella and parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy. Cover and let the skillet rest for 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken naturally.
    9. Garnish and Serve
  9. 9
    Sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Serve warm directly from the skillet for a comforting, rustic presentation.
Note
  • For Extra Creaminess: Add 2 tablespoons cream cheese before resting.
  • For a Healthier Version: Substitute heavy cream with evaporated milk or half-and-half.
  • Rice Tip: Long-grain white rice works best. Avoid instant rice as it may turn mushy.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Add 2–3 tablespoons of milk before reheating to restore creaminess.
  • Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Protein Swap: You may substitute chicken with turkey breast pieces.
Keywords: quick dinner, one-pan meal, creamy chicken, family-friendly, budget-friendly
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/creamy-chicken-and-rice-skillet/