There is nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as a one-pan wonder that turns out creamy, dreamy, and packed with flavor. This Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe is exactly that kind of dish, where tender chicken cubes mingle with buttery rice cooked in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser, effortlessly warming both the heart and the appetite with every bite. Whether you’re cooking a simple weeknight dinner or craving a cozy meal with that just-made-from-scratch feel, this recipe delivers all the richness and homely goodness in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the perfect balance of ingredients. Each component plays a role in building the layers of taste, texture, and color that make the skillet come alive.

1 pound chicken breasts, cut into small bite-size cubes: Provides juicy protein that cooks quickly and soaks up flavors beautifully.
1 teaspoon sweet paprika: Adds a mild smoky sweetness and vibrant color to the chicken.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Amplifies savory depth, ensuring every bite has subtle warmth.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the fresh onion with an easy, layered onion flavor.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for sautéing that imparts silky smoothness.
1 large onion, chopped: Softens to add a mild sweetness and body to the dish.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic aroma that wakes up the taste buds.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Offers a fragrant blend of herbs that ties everything together.
1 cup long-grain rice, such as Jasmine: The fluffy grain that soaks up the broth and cream for that lush texture.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Essential for cooking the rice while adding savory undertones without overwhelming saltiness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all flavors, balancing and brightening the dish.
1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that irresistible creaminess coating every grain and piece of chicken.
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Provides sharp, nutty richness that melts into the creamy sauce.
Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of green freshness and a subtle herbal note to finish.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by tossing your bite-sized chicken cubes in a mix of sweet paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This simple seasoning creates a flavorful coat that will infuse the chicken with warmth and a beautiful color as it cooks.

Step 2: Cook the Onions and Garlic

Next, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and fragrant — this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook just until it releases its marvelous aroma, careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken pieces turn white on the outside and are no longer pink in the middle. This will seal in the juices and build a nice, slight crust on the cubes.

Step 4: Add Rice and Broth

Pour in the Italian seasoning, rice, and chicken broth, then gently stir everything together. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to your liking. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. During this time, the rice absorbs the broth, swelling into tender grains infused with all the savory goodness.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

After the rice has absorbed most of the broth, stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep cooking gently until the cream thickens and coats each grain with silky richness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving to brighten the dish visually and in flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the perfect finishing touch, lending a burst of color and a subtle herbal lift against the creamy backdrop. For a little extra zing, you can also grate some more Parmesan on top right before serving or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.

Side Dishes

While this skillet is a full meal on its own, pairing it with crisp, green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a peppery arugula salad creates a lovely contrast that balances the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also make excellent companions for mopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe family-style right from the pan for a cozy, communal feel that invites everyone to dig in. Alternatively, portion it into individual bowls for an elegant yet comforting presentation—top each serving with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and a small wedge of lemon for a fresh burst.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps exceptionally well, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, though the texture may thicken slightly.

Freezing

You can freeze the Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe, but keep in mind that the texture of the cream may change slightly after freezing. To freeze, cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the rice and bring back that silky consistency. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth accordingly and simmer until the rice is tender. The dish will have a nuttier flavor and chewier texture with brown rice.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or a vegan butter, and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can be used in place of Parmesan for that cheesy kick.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Definitely! Chicken thighs will make the dish even more flavorful and juicy. Cut them into small cubes like the breasts and follow the same cooking steps. Just ensure they are cooked through before adding the rice and broth.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, Pecorino Romano or Asiago can work well as alternatives for that nutty, salty note. For a milder touch, a good-quality shredded mozzarella will add creaminess without the strong flavor.

Is it possible to add vegetables to the skillet?

Yes, feel free to sneak in veggies such as peas, spinach, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking. This boosts the nutrition and adds a fresh, colorful dimension to the dish without complicating the process.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about the Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. Its ease and comforting flavors make it an absolute win in busy kitchens and those craving a homemade meal that doesn’t require endless cleanup. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to dinner to share with family and friends.

Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe

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4 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe offers a rich, comforting one-pan meal perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender chicken breast pieces are seasoned and sautéed with aromatic onions and garlic, then simmered with rice in flavorful chicken broth. Finished with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, this dish delivers a luscious creamy texture and savory depth, garnished with fresh parsley for a bright touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

1 pound chicken breasts, cut into small bite-size cubes
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Sauté Base

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

Rice and Liquids

1 cup long-grain rice, such as Jasmine
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Finishing Components

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Season the chicken: In a bowl, coat the chicken cubes evenly with sweet paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
Cook the onions and garlic: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring often to prevent burning.
Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken pieces are no longer pink in the center and lightly browned on the outside, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Add rice and broth: Stir in the Italian seasoning, then add the rice and pour in the chicken broth. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently over low to medium heat for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Finish the dish: Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking over low heat, stirring frequently, until the rice absorbs the cream and the mixture is creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm as a satisfying main dish.

Notes

You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, adding salt gradually.
For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt (added off the heat to prevent curdling).
Make sure the skillet is covered during simmering to retain moisture and cook rice evenly.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the dish simmer a few extra minutes uncovered before serving.
Fresh parsley can be replaced with fresh basil or chives for a different herbaceous note.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American