Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Kitchen

I love making Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice because it's a delicious, comforting meal that comes together in just one pot. The silky sauce combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice fills the house with aromatic flavors that make my mouth water. As a busy home cook, I appreciate recipes that save on cleanup while still delivering rich taste. The best part is how quickly everything comes together, making it a hassle-free dinner option for weeknights or weekends alike.

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:57:35.965Z

When I first attempted this Creamy One Pot Chicken And Rice, I was searching for a dish that could bring the family together without spending hours in the kitchen. The method of using just one pot not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows for all the flavors to meld beautifully. I remember the satisfaction of seeing my family gather around the table, excited to dig into this creamy delight.

What really makes this recipe special is the addition of fresh herbs and a splash of lemon juice at the end. It adds a bright note that balances the richness of the cream and chicken. I also discovered that using chicken thighs rather than breasts results in a juicier and more flavorful dish, which everyone's been loving!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that's perfect for cozy dinners.
One pot means less cleanup and more time with family.
Packed with flavor from fresh herbs and a splash of citrus.

Perfecting the Chicken

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken thighs in this dish, ensure that the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A medium heat allows the thighs to brown nicely without cooking them through too quickly. You want to see a golden crust forming before removing them from the pot. If your chicken isn't browning, check that the pot isn't overcrowded, as this can create steam and prevent proper searing.

After returning the chicken to the pot, keep an eye on the simmering liquid. The chicken should bathe in the creamy sauce while maintaining its moisture. You can also check that the thighs have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they're fully cooked. If you prefer a crispier skin, you can finish the chicken in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) for the last few minutes.

Rice Techniques

Using long-grain rice in this recipe ensures fluffy grains that won't become mushy. It's crucial to rinse the rice under cold water before adding it to the pot, as this removes excess starch and prevents clumping. Aim to rinse it until the water runs clear, which should take about a minute, ensuring a better texture in the final dish.

When combining the rice with the liquids, stir gently to incorporate and break any clumps. Once the mixture is boiling, do not lift the lid during the 20-minute simmer; doing so lets steam escape and can lead to undercooked rice. Instead, trust the process, and you'll be rewarded with perfectly cooked rice every time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious one-pot meal:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best result!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your meal:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, seasoning them with salt and pepper, then cook for about 6-8 minutes, until browned. Remove from pot and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Add Rice and Liquids

Stir in the rice, followed by the chicken broth, heavy cream, oregano, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer and Finish

Reduce heat to low, return the chicken to the pot, and cover. Let simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender. Stir in spinach and lemon juice just before serving.

Enjoy your creamy, flavorful dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the dish rest for 5 minutes covered before serving. Adding freshly squeezed lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe calls for heavy cream to achieve a rich, creamy sauce, you can substitute full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. It provides a similar creaminess and adds a hint of coconut flavor that's delicious with the herbs and citrus in the dish. For a lighter option, you could also use half-and-half, but keep in mind it may alter the overall richness.

If chicken thighs aren't your preference, skinless and boneless chicken breasts can be used instead, but they require a shorter cooking time. Sauté them for about 4-6 minutes per side, as they cook faster than thighs. Adjust the simmering time accordingly to avoid overcooking and drying them out.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy One Pot Chicken and Rice dish is great for meal prep! You can prepare the entire recipe ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

If you're looking to freeze leftovers, portion them into freezer-safe containers and they can last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When reheating from frozen, aim for low and slow to ensure even warming without ruining the texture of the chicken or rice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they might dry out more easily compared to thighs.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers! Just make sure to cool it completely and store in airtight containers.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream if you're looking for a lighter option.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can include bell peppers, peas, or any veggies you like for added nutrition.