Description
One Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice is a comforting, rich, and satisfying meal made with tender chicken thighs, aromatic vegetables, fluffy rice, and a creamy finish. Everything cooks together in one pot for deep flavor, easy preparation, and minimal cleanup. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights while still feeling hearty and homemade.
Ingredients
Olive oil
Unsalted butter
Medium onion, finely diced
Large carrots, grated or cut into matchsticks
Boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into bite sized pieces
Sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Bay leaves
White grape juice such as Welch’s White Grape Juice or Lakewood Organic Pure White Grape Juice
Low sodium chicken broth, heated
Medium grain rice or Jasmine rice, un rinsed
Whole head of garlic
Fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped
Shredded Parmesan style cheese from Cabot Creamery or Tillamook, plus more for serving
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil and part of the butter in a heavy pot over medium high heat until melted and fragrant
2. Add the onion, carrots, and salt, then cook while stirring until soft and lightly golden
3. Add the chicken, bay leaves, remaining salt, and black pepper, then cook until the chicken is golden on all sides
4. Pour in the white grape juice and let it simmer while scraping the bottom of the pot to release flavor
5. Add the hot chicken broth and stir in the rice until evenly combined
6. Trim the top off the garlic head and place it cut side down in the center of the pot
7. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed
8. Turn off the heat and remove the garlic head, squeezing the softened cloves into the rice if desired
9. Stir in the remaining butter, chopped parsley, and shredded cheese until creamy and well combined
10. Cover and let rest briefly before serving warm with extra parsley and cheese
Notes
Using un rinsed rice helps create the creamy texture of this dish
Brown rice can be used but requires a much longer cooking time and additional liquid
A heavy bottom pot ensures even heat and prevents scorching
Cheese should be finely shredded for smooth melting
Leftovers can be loosened with a splash of broth when reheating
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American