Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet

Name: Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Planning

I love making a rich, flavorful dinner that comes together in one pan. The Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet has become a staple in my home because of its comforting flavors and speedy preparation. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice creates a satisfying meal. Plus, I appreciate how simple it is to throw together after a long day. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish is sure to impress my family and friends, and it never fails to keep us coming back for seconds.

Created by

Zara Ellington

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:37:35.879Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. Cooking everything in one pan not only saved time on washing up but also allowed the flavors to meld beautifully. The creamy sauce, enriched by the chicken juices, envelops each grain of rice, creating a luxuriously savory dish that feels indulgent.

I found that using boneless, skinless chicken thighs added an incredible depth of flavor while staying juicy. For an extra kick, I often incorporate a splash of lemon juice at the end. This brightens up the dish perfectly and balances the creaminess, making it a delightful meal my family now requests regularly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        One-pan convenience for easy clean-up
Creamy sauce that perfectly coats tender chicken and rice
Ideal for busy weeknights while still feeling indulgent

      

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

The key to achieving a luxuriously creamy sauce in this dish lies in using heavy cream rather than lighter alternatives like half-and-half or milk. Heavy cream has a higher fat content, which not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a silky consistency that clings beautifully to the chicken and rice. For those watching their calorie intake, coconut milk can be a lighter, dairy-free alternative that still offers a rich texture.

When adding the cream to the skillet, it's essential to lower the heat to prevent curdling. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the cream is fully incorporated and the sauce has thickened slightly. This process should take about five minutes; you'll know it's ready when it looks glossy and coats the back of a spoon.

Flavor Balance with Ingredients

Incorporating frozen peas not only adds a pop of color but also offers a sweet contrast to the savory elements of the dish. They heat through quickly, so I recommend stirring them in during the last five minutes of cooking to maintain their vibrant green color and fresh taste. If you're looking for alternatives, try substituting peas with chopped spinach or diced bell peppers for different flavor profiles.

The combination of garlic and onion provides a robust base that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Be careful not to overcook the garlic; it should be sautéed just until fragrant to avoid bitterness that can overpower the other flavors. If you're a fan of herbs, consider adding fresh thyme or rosemary with the garlic for an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with the chicken.

Ingredients

Gather these hearty ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you've prepared these ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious and creamy dish:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on each side, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Rice and Broth

Add the rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat it with the oil. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook on low heat for 15 minutes.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot, enjoying the comforting flavors.

Enjoy this comforting dish perfect for any night of the week!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary into the dish. You can also substitute half and half for a lighter sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, the Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce. This will prevent the rice from drying out and keep the dish creamy and flavorful.

For longer preservation, consider freezing this dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat frozen leftovers, I suggest letting the dish thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it gently in a skillet. This method ensures even heating without sacrificing texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with the proteins in this recipe! While chicken thighs are delicious, you can switch them out for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a heartier meal, diced ham or cooked sausage can be added when sautéing the vegetables for an entirely different flavor profile.

Vegetarian fans can easily make this a meatless dish by replacing the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms. Just sauté the veggies until they’re tender before adding the rice and broth. You might also want to include some chickpeas for a protein boost, ensuring there's no compromise on the dish's satisfaction.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute chicken breasts for thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more quickly. Be sure to check for doneness.

→ Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

You can use brown rice instead of white rice and opt for low-fat cream or yogurt for the sauce.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

The dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead and combine them right before cooking.

→ What can I serve with this?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make great sides with this one-pan dish.