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Classic & Creamy One Pot Chicken and Rice

Close-up of creamy one pot chicken and rice dish topped with peas, chicken pieces, and grated Parmesan.

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Make this simple, comforting one pot chicken and rice dish for an easy weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup. It features tender chicken and creamy rice cooked together in a single pot.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. You do not need to cook it through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the uncooked rice, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  6. Return the browned chicken to the pot. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the frozen peas (if using) and the shredded Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
  8. Let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use low-sodium chicken broth.
  • If you prefer a thicker consistency, cook uncovered for the last 5 minutes, stirring gently.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

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