The One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe is a comforting and delicious dish that is easy to prepare. This hearty meal features tender chicken, creamy rice and a variety of veggies, all cooked together in one pan for a meal that's easy to prepare and clean up.
Most of the ingredients for this dish are fairly standard pantry items. However, there are a few ingredients that you might need to pick up. The petite peas are smaller than regular peas and can be found in the frozen section at most supermarkets. The parmesan cheese adds a nice nutty flavor to the dish, and using a block of parmesan and grating it yourself can really enhance the flavor.
Ingredients for One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice
yellow onion: This is used to add a depth of flavor to the dish.
carrots: Carrots add a sweet flavor and crunch to the dish.
celery: Celery adds a crisp texture and a slightly salty flavor.
olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and chicken.
boneless: The meat that will be the star of the dish.
garlic: Adds a pungent and flavorful touch to the whole dish.
white rice: Absorbs the flavors of the dish and adds a nice texture.
chicken broth: It provides the liquid for the rice to cook and absorbs it for extra flavor.
thyme: Adds a slightly sweet, yet strong, lemony flavor.
peas: Adds a pop of color and sweet flavor.
heavy cream: It gives the dish its creamy texture and rich flavor.
parmesan: Adds a savory and cheesy element to the dish.
parsley: Used as a garnish, it adds a fresh flavor and color.
One reader, Karleen Pan says:
This one-pan creamy chicken and rice recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the dish is so easy to make. The creamy texture and tender chicken make it a family favorite. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and hassle-free meal.
Mastering the Techniques for One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice
How to sauté vegetables: Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in a skillet with olive oil until tender, about 8 to 9 minutes.
How to cook the chicken: Cook the chicken in a skillet with olive oil until nearly cooked through, about 3 minutes.
How to simmer the rice: Bring the rice, chicken broth, and thyme to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and simmer until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is nearly tender, about 18 to 20 minutes.
How to finish the dish: Stir in the peas and cream, cover, and cook until the rice is fully tender, about 5 minutes longer. Then, stir in the parmesan and parsley before serving.
How To Make One Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice
Achieve a gratifying meal out of this one pan creamy chicken recipe. Composed of rice, chicken broth, and vegetables with cream and even parmesan.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupyellow onion,small, chopped
- 1cupsliced carrots,about 2 medium
- 1cupsliced celery,about 3 stalks
- 2tbspolive oil,divided
- 1¼lbstrimmed boneless,skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1tbspgarlic,(3 cloves), minced
- 1cuplong grain white rice
- 2½cupslow-sodium chicken broth
- 1½tspfresh thyme,and/or rosemary, minced
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1cupfrozen petite peas
- ½cupheavy cream
- ⅓cupparmesan cheese,finely shredded
- 2tbspfresh parsley,minced
Instructions
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Heat 1½ Tablespoon of olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and saute until tender for about 8 to 9 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
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Heat remaining ½ Tablespoon of oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add in chicken and cook for 3 minutes.
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Add garlic and cook until chicken is nearly cooked through for about 2 minutes longer.
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Add in rice, chicken broth, and thyme then season with salt and pepper to taste. Return veggies to skillet.
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Bring mixture to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with lid and simmer until liquid has been absorbed and rice is nearly tender for about 18 to 20 minutes.
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Stir in peas and cream, cover, and cook until rice is fully tender for about 5 minutes longer.
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Stir in parmesan and parsley. Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Calories: 303.65kcal
- Fat: 22.22g
- Saturated Fat: 10.17g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9.49g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.53g
- Carbohydrates: 17.25g
- Fiber: 4.19g
- Sugar: 6.70g
- Protein: 11.22g
- Cholesterol: 49.18mg
- Sodium: 782.00mg
- Calcium: 223.01mg
- Potassium: 507.27mg
- Iron: 1.53mg
- Vitamin A: 430.91µg
- Vitamin C: 23.89mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice
To ensure that your chicken is cooked perfectly and remains juicy, avoid overcooking it. Chicken breast, in particular, can become dry if overcooked. A good way to check if your chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don't have a thermometer, another way to check is by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken. If the juices run clear and there is no pink in the middle, your chicken is done.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and trim chicken in advance to save time during the cooking process.
Use pre-cut vegetables: Consider using pre-cut vegetables to cut down on prep time.
Multi-task: While the dish is simmering, use that time to clean up the kitchen or prepare a side salad.
Invest in a rice cooker: Consider using a rice cooker to simplify the process of cooking the rice separately.
One-pot meals: Look for other one-pot meal recipes to save time on cooking and cleaning.
Substitute Ingredients For One Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a similar flavor profile to yellow onions and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
sliced carrots - Substitute with chopped bell peppers: Bell peppers can add a sweet and crunchy texture similar to carrots in the dish.
sliced celery - Substitute with fennel bulb: Fennel bulb has a similar crunchy texture and a hint of celery-like flavor that can work well in this recipe.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
boneless chicken - Substitute with boneless turkey: Boneless turkey can be used as a substitute for chicken, providing a similar texture and flavor in the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a mild garlic flavor and can be used as a substitute for garlic in this recipe.
long grain white rice - Substitute with jasmine rice: Jasmine rice has a fragrant aroma and a slightly sticky texture, making it a suitable substitute for long grain white rice.
low-sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a flavorful base for the dish.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used as a substitute for fresh thyme, providing a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the dish.
frozen petite peas - Substitute with frozen edamame: Edamame can add a pop of color and a slightly nutty flavor similar to petite peas in the recipe.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream, adding a rich and creamy texture to the dish.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino Romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese has a similar salty and nutty flavor to parmesan and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro can provide a vibrant and herbaceous flavor similar to parsley in the dish.
Presenting Your Creamy Chicken and Rice Masterpiece
- Elevate the plating: Arrange the creamy chicken and rice in a circular mold for a clean and refined presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a delicate mix of freshly chopped parsley and thyme over the dish to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by adding edible flowers such as nasturtium or pansies for a visually stunning and sophisticated finish.
- Utilize fine dining plating techniques: Employ techniques such as quenelles or precise placement of ingredients to showcase the dish's sophistication and attention to detail.
- Accent with a drizzle: Finish the dish with a subtle drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a touch of luxury to the presentation.
- Serve in elegant dinnerware: Present the creamy chicken and rice in elegant, minimalist dinnerware to highlight the dish's refined and upscale appeal.
- Add a touch of gold leaf: For an opulent touch, delicately place edible gold leaf on the plate to elevate the dish to a luxurious and visually stunning level.
Essential Tools for Making One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp cutting tool used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
- Wooden spoon: A versatile tool used for stirring, mixing, and sautéing ingredients.
- Lid or cover: Used to cover the skillet while simmering or cooking to retain heat and moisture.
- Grater: Used for grating cheese or vegetables.
- Spatula: A flat cooking tool used for flipping and turning ingredients.
- Cooking thermometer: Used to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Plate: Used for transferring cooked ingredients and for serving the dish.
Storing and Freezing Your One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice
To store leftover one-pan creamy chicken and rice, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Seal the container tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating the leftovers, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen up the rice and prevent it from drying out. Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through.
If you want to freeze the leftovers, transfer the cooled one-pan creamy chicken and rice to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it to prevent freezer burn. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen one-pan creamy chicken and rice can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, place the container in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
When reheating frozen leftovers, it's best to thaw them in the refrigerator first. Once thawed, reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra chicken broth or water as needed to help restore the creamy texture of the rice.
Keep in mind that the texture of the rice may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming a bit softer than when it was freshly made. However, the flavor should still be delicious, and the dish will remain a satisfying and comforting meal.
Reheating Leftover Creamy Chicken and Rice
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover one-pan creamy chicken and rice to a saucepan. add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent the rice from drying out. heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the dish is heated through and the chicken is warm. if the sauce becomes too thick, add more liquid as needed.
Microwave method: place the leftover one-pan creamy chicken and rice in a microwave-safe dish. add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent the rice from drying out. cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. microwave on high power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dish is heated through and the chicken is warm.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°f (175°c). transfer the leftover one-pan creamy chicken and rice to an oven-safe dish. add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent the rice from drying out. cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the chicken is warm. remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
Regardless of the reheating method, be sure to stir the dish well to distribute the heat evenly and ensure that the rice and chicken are heated through. taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or extra parmesan cheese to enhance the flavors.
If the leftover one-pan creamy chicken and rice seems dry after reheating, consider adding a dollop of heavy cream or a pat of butter to help restore the creamy texture and rich flavor of the dish.
Fascinating Facts About Creamy Chicken and Rice
The creamy chicken and rice recipe is a versatile dish that can be customized with different vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Budget-Friendly One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice
This one-pan creamy chicken and rice recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken, rice, vegetables, and cream, are commonly found and reasonably priced. The dish offers a satisfying and hearty meal for a family of four. The approximate cost for this recipe would be around $15-$20, making it an affordable option for a home-cooked dinner. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its balance of cost-effectiveness and delicious flavors.
Is This Creamy Chicken and Rice Dish Healthy or Not?
The one-pan creamy chicken and rice recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish, but it does have some aspects that could be improved to make it healthier. Let's take a closer look:
Analysis:
- The recipe includes a variety of vegetables like onion, carrots, and celery, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Chicken is a lean protein source, contributing to the overall nutritional value of the dish.
- The use of low-sodium chicken broth helps control the salt content.
- However, the recipe also contains heavy cream and parmesan cheese, which are high in saturated fat and calories.
- The white rice used in the recipe is a refined grain, lacking the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain alternatives.
While the dish has some nutritional merits, the inclusion of heavy cream and parmesan cheese, along with the use of white rice, pushes it towards the less healthy end of the spectrum.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the heavy cream with a lighter alternative like evaporated skim milk or Greek yogurt, which will still provide creaminess but with less saturated fat and calories.
- Reduce the amount of parmesan cheese or opt for a lower-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella.
- Replace the white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for added fiber and nutrients.
- Increase the variety and amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, to boost the overall nutrient content.
- Use skinless chicken breasts to further reduce the fat content of the meal.
The Editor's Take on This Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
The one-pan creamy chicken and rice recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and creamy rice. The dish is well-balanced with a comforting creaminess and a pop of color from the peas. The use of fresh thyme and garlic adds depth of flavor, while the parmesan and parsley provide a finishing touch. This recipe is a perfect example of a simple yet elegant one-pan meal that is sure to satisfy and impress.
Enhance Your One Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this One Pan Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe:
This one-pan creamy chicken and rice recipe is a trustworthy choice for a satisfying meal. The combination of chicken and rice creates a hearty and comforting dish, while the addition of carrots, celery, and peas ensures a nutritious balance. The use of fresh thyme and garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavors, and the inclusion of parmesan cheese and heavy cream adds a rich and creamy texture. With a straightforward cooking method and simple ingredients, this recipe promises a delicious and convenient dining experience.
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