One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe

In the whirlwind of busy weeknights, finding a dinner that’s both satisfying and simple can feel like striking gold. As someone who juggles work, family, and the perpetual quest for a delicious meal, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that minimize kitchen chaos without compromising on flavor. Enter this One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice – a true game-changer in our household. From the moment the aroma of garlic and Italian herbs filled the kitchen, I knew we were onto something special. And the taste? Oh, the taste! Tender, juicy chicken nestled in the silkiest, most flavorful rice imaginable, enriched with the subtle tang of mascarpone and the salty bite of Parmesan. Even my notoriously picky eaters devoured it, declaring it a “hug in a bowl.” This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience – a comforting, soul-warming dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, all in one single pot. Say goodbye to mountains of dishes and hello to pure dinner bliss! If you’re searching for a recipe that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for company, look no further. This One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice is about to become your new go-to, guaranteed.

Ingredients

The beauty of this One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice lies not only in its simplicity but also in the harmonious blend of flavors created by a handful of quality ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in building the comforting and delicious final dish. Let’s break down each ingredient and understand why it’s essential and what you need to have on hand:

• 4 small chicken fillets: Chicken fillets are the star protein of this dish, offering a lean and tender base. Their relatively quick cooking time makes them ideal for a 30-minute meal. Look for fillets that are uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking. If you only have chicken breasts, you can slice them horizontally to create thinner fillets, which will cook faster and more evenly in the one-pot setting. Using smaller fillets also helps them cook through in the time it takes for the rice to become perfectly tender. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer a richer, more flavorful chicken, but keep in mind they may require slightly longer cooking time.
• 2 tsp salt – divided: Salt is the fundamental seasoning that enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients. Dividing the salt ensures that the chicken is properly seasoned at the start and that the rice and sauce are also perfectly balanced in flavor at the end. Using salt in stages, rather than all at once, allows you to build layers of flavor and control the overall saltiness of the dish. Table salt or kosher salt can be used, but if using kosher salt, you may need slightly more by volume to achieve the same level of saltiness as table salt.
• 2 tsp black pepper – divided: Just like salt, black pepper is a crucial seasoning that adds a touch of warmth and spice to the dish. Dividing the pepper ensures that both the chicken and the overall dish are well-seasoned. Freshly cracked black pepper is always preferable for its more robust and aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. The pepper complements the richness of the mascarpone and Parmesan beautifully, cutting through the creaminess and adding depth.
• 1 tsp sweet paprika: Sweet paprika brings a subtle smoky sweetness and a beautiful reddish hue to the chicken. It’s a gentle spice that enhances the savory notes of the chicken without overpowering the other flavors. Smoked paprika can also be used for a deeper smoky flavor, or you can use a blend of sweet and smoked paprika for a more complex profile. Paprika is not just about flavor; it also contributes to the visual appeal of the dish, giving the chicken a lovely color when seared.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and a luxurious mouthfeel to the dish. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall salt content, especially since Parmesan cheese is already quite salty. Butter also helps to create a beautiful golden-brown sear on the chicken and adds a depth of flavor that olive oil alone cannot achieve. The butter’s fat content also contributes to the creamy texture of the final rice dish.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Olive oil is used in conjunction with butter to sauté the chicken and aromatics. It has a higher smoke point than butter, preventing the butter from burning when heated to medium-high heat. Olive oil also adds a subtle fruity and peppery note to the dish. Extra virgin olive oil is a good choice for its flavor, but regular olive oil or light olive oil can also be used.
• 4 garlic cloves – minced: Garlic is a foundational aromatic that infuses the dish with a savory, pungent flavor. Minced garlic releases its aroma and flavor more readily than sliced or whole cloves. Fresh garlic is always preferred for its vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar, though the flavor will be less intense. Garlic is sautéed with the onion to create a flavorful base for the rice and sauce.
• 1 small yellow onion – finely chopped: Yellow onion provides a sweet and savory base flavor to the dish. Finely chopping the onion ensures that it cooks down quickly and evenly, melding into the sauce and adding a subtle sweetness without being chunky. Yellow onions are versatile and readily available, making them a great choice for this recipe. White or sweet onions can also be used, each offering slightly different nuances in flavor.
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning is a convenient blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. It adds a herbaceous and aromatic complexity to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile and complementing the chicken and creamy sauce. Using a pre-made Italian seasoning blend simplifies the recipe and ensures a balanced herb flavor. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can create your own blend using dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
• 1 cup basmati rice: Basmati rice is chosen for its long grains and fragrant aroma. It cooks up fluffy and separate, preventing the dish from becoming overly starchy or gummy. Basmati rice also has a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce and chicken. While basmati is recommended, you can substitute it with long-grain white rice, but the texture and aroma may be slightly different. Avoid using short-grain rice like Arborio rice, which is designed for risotto and will release too much starch, resulting in a stickier dish.
• 3 cups chicken broth: Chicken broth is the liquid base for cooking the rice and creating the sauce. It adds a savory depth of flavor that water alone cannot provide. Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the overall saltiness of the dish. Using high-quality chicken broth will significantly enhance the flavor of the final dish. You can also use homemade chicken broth for even richer flavor.
• 1 cup mascarpone: Mascarpone is the secret ingredient that elevates this dish to creamy perfection. It’s an Italian cream cheese that is richer and smoother than American cream cheese, with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor. Mascarpone melts beautifully into the rice and broth, creating a luxuriously creamy sauce without being overly heavy. It adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the Parmesan and butter. If mascarpone is unavailable, you can substitute it with full-fat cream cheese, but let it soften slightly before adding it to the dish and whisk it in thoroughly to prevent lumps.
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan: Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich flavor to the dish. Freshly grated Parmesan is crucial for its superior flavor and melting quality compared to pre-grated Parmesan, which often contains cellulose and doesn’t melt as smoothly. Parmesan cheese melts into the creamy sauce, adding depth of flavor and a slightly salty finish. It complements the mascarpone and enhances the overall richness of the dish. Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for a sharper, saltier flavor.
• 1 tbsp freshly chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley is used as a garnish to add a pop of freshness and color to the finished dish. It provides a bright, herbaceous counterpoint to the richness of the creamy sauce and chicken. Fresh parsley is best, but in a pinch, you can use dried parsley, though the flavor will be less vibrant. Other fresh herbs like chives or basil can also be used as garnishes.

Instructions

This One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe is designed for ease and efficiency, bringing together delicious flavors with minimal fuss and cleanup. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a comforting and satisfying meal in just 30 minutes:

1. Season the chicken fillets: Begin by preparing the chicken, the star of our dish. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika. This spice blend will create a flavorful crust on the chicken as it sears. Generously rub this mixture all over the four small chicken fillets, ensuring each fillet is evenly coated. This initial seasoning is crucial for building flavor from the very first step. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it will penetrate the chicken as it cooks and contribute to the overall taste of the dish.
2. Prep the aromatics: While the chicken rests and absorbs the seasonings, prepare the aromatics that will form the flavor base of the dish. Mince the four garlic cloves finely. Finely chop the one small yellow onion. Also, chop the fresh parsley, if you haven’t already, and set it aside for garnish at the end. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking streamlines the process and makes the cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or pan over medium-high heat. The combination of butter and olive oil provides both flavor and a good searing temperature. Once the butter is melted and the oil is shimmering hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken fillets to the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature and prevent proper searing. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Cook the chicken for about 5-8 minutes per side, or until it is cooked through and beautifully browned on both sides. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken fillets. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Searing the chicken creates a flavorful crust and seals in the juices, keeping it moist and tender.
4. Rest the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through and browned, remove it from the skillet and place it on a clean plate. Immediately cover the plate with aluminum foil. This step is crucial for allowing the chicken to rest. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Set the chicken aside while you prepare the rice and sauce.
5. Sauté aromatics and rice: In the same skillet, with the flavorful chicken drippings still in the pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté the garlic and onion for about 2 minutes, or until the onion becomes softened and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Next, add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning and the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper to the skillet. Stir in the Italian seasoning and spices, allowing them to bloom in the warm oil and release their aromas. Add 1 cup of basmati rice to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Toasting the rice slightly in the aromatics and spices enhances its flavor and helps to prevent it from becoming mushy during cooking.
6. Simmer the rice: Pour 3 cups of chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine everything and deglaze the bottom of the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for 8 minutes. It’s important to simmer gently to allow the rice to cook evenly and absorb the broth. Stir the rice from time to time during simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. Check the liquid level occasionally; if the rice seems to be drying out too quickly before it’s cooked through, add a little more chicken broth, about ¼ cup at a time.
7. Stir in creaminess: After 8 minutes of simmering, check the rice. It should be mostly cooked through and have absorbed most of the broth. If there’s still a lot of liquid, continue to simmer uncovered for a few more minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Add 1 cup of mascarpone cheese to the rice and stir until it is completely dissolved and the rice becomes wonderfully creamy. Then, stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it is melted and incorporated into the sauce. The mascarpone and Parmesan are added off the heat to ensure they melt smoothly and create a luscious, creamy sauce without curdling.
8. Nestle chicken and finish: Gently nestle the rested chicken fillets into the creamy rice, pressing them down slightly to submerge them partially in the sauce. Return the skillet to low heat and simmer for another 3 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through. This final simmer allows the chicken to reheat and absorb some of the creamy sauce, further enhancing its flavor and tenderness.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Top the One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice with freshly cracked black pepper and 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting and flavorful one-pot meal!

Nutrition Facts

This One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice is not only delicious and convenient but also offers a balanced and satisfying meal. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information per serving:

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 458 per serving

Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes. This dish provides a good source of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the rice, and healthy fats from the olive oil, butter, mascarpone, and Parmesan. It’s a comforting and nourishing meal that fits well into a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its incredibly quick preparation time. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can have a delicious and comforting dinner on the table in just half an hour:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

This speedy preparation makes it an ideal choice for weeknight meals when time is of the essence, or for a quick and easy weekend lunch.

How to Serve

This One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience by serving it with complementary sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Fresh Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the creamy chicken and rice. The acidity of the vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess and cleanses the palate.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers. These add fiber and nutrients to the meal and balance the flavors.
• Crusty Bread: Offer crusty bread or garlic bread for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce. A warm, crusty baguette or Italian bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of the flavorful sauce.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
• Extra Parmesan: Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who want an even cheesier experience.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a bit of heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the dish before serving.

Additional Tips for Perfect One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice

To ensure your One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time, here are five additional tips:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan When Searing Chicken: Searing the chicken in batches, if necessary, is crucial for achieving a good sear and preventing steaming. Overcrowding the pan lowers the temperature and results in chicken that is steamed rather than seared, impacting both texture and flavor.
• Use Hot Chicken Broth: Using hot chicken broth when adding it to the rice helps to maintain the cooking temperature and speeds up the cooking process. Cold broth can lower the temperature and prolong the cooking time.
• Simmer Gently: Simmering the rice over medium-low heat is important for even cooking. High heat can cause the liquid to evaporate too quickly before the rice is fully cooked, or it can lead to the rice sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning.
• Don’t Overcook the Rice: Keep an eye on the rice as it simmers. Overcooked rice can become mushy. Cook until the rice is just tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. It’s better to slightly undercook the rice as it will continue to cook and absorb moisture as it rests and when you add the mascarpone and Parmesan.
• Adjust Creaminess to Your Preference: If you prefer an even creamier dish, you can increase the amount of mascarpone cheese slightly. Alternatively, for a lighter version, you can reduce the mascarpone or substitute part of it with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.

FAQ Section: Ingredients

Here are five frequently asked questions about the ingredients used in this One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe:

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken fillets?

A: Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Chicken thighs are richer in flavor and tend to stay moist even if slightly overcooked. However, they may require a bit longer to cook through than chicken fillets. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You might also want to trim any excess fat from the thighs before cooking.

Q2: I don’t have mascarpone cheese. Can I substitute it with something else?

A: If you can’t find mascarpone cheese, the best substitute is full-fat cream cheese. Soften the cream cheese slightly at room temperature before adding it to the dish and whisk it in thoroughly to ensure it melts smoothly and doesn’t leave any lumps. While cream cheese will provide creaminess, mascarpone has a slightly sweeter and tangier flavor, so the taste will be subtly different. Another option, though it will alter the flavor profile more significantly, is to use heavy cream or crème fraîche for a richer, tangier creaminess.

Q3: Can I use a different type of rice instead of basmati?

A: While basmati rice is recommended for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, you can use long-grain white rice as a substitute. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still work well in the recipe. Avoid using short-grain rice like Arborio or sushi rice, as these are starchier and will result in a stickier, less desirable texture for this dish.

Q4: Can I make this recipe dairy-free or lower in dairy?

A: To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. For the mascarpone, you can use a plant-based cream cheese alternative or full-fat coconut cream (the solid part from a refrigerated can). For the Parmesan, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy, umami flavor, although it won’t melt in the same way. To lower the dairy content, you can reduce the amount of mascarpone and Parmesan, or use a lighter cream cheese alternative.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to this dish?

A: Absolutely! You can easily add vegetables to this One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice. Some great additions include frozen peas (added towards the end of cooking), sliced mushrooms (sautéed with the onions and garlic), chopped bell peppers (also sautéed with the aromatics), or spinach (stirred in at the very end until wilted). Adding vegetables not only increases the nutritional value but also adds flavor and texture to the dish. Adjust the amount of chicken broth if you add a significant amount of vegetables, as they may release moisture during cooking.

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