Creamy Chicken and Rice Comfort came to life on one of those chilly evenings when I just needed a bowl of something warm cozy and soothing. I didn’t want to fuss with a long list of ingredients and I had some chicken and rice on hand so I leaned into simplicity and whipped up this creamy dreamy dish that has since become a weeknight go-to in my kitchen.

I love how the tender bites of chicken pair with the velvety sauce and how the fluffy rice catches every bit of that flavor It’s rich without being heavy and it hits all the nostalgic comfort food notes. Plus it’s a one-pan kind of meal which makes cleanup a breeze and leaves you with more time to enjoy every creamy spoonful.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Chicken breasts – Tender and lean they soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
White rice – Fluffy and neutral it soaks up the savory richness of the dish.
Butter – Adds richness and helps sauté the chicken for golden edges.
Garlic – Provides warm savory flavor to the base of the sauce.
Chicken broth – Deepens the flavor and keeps the rice moist.
Heavy cream – The heart of the creamy sauce that makes this dish comforting.
Cheddar cheese – Melts into the sauce adding sharpness and extra indulgence.
Paprika – Adds warmth and a hint of smoky spice.
Fresh parsley – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbal finish.
Salt and pepper – The basic but essential seasoning duo.

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet or sauté pan – To cook everything in one place for maximum flavor and easy cleanup.
Sharp knife – For cutting the chicken into evenly sized pieces.
Cutting board – A stable surface for prepping your ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir the sauce without scratching your pan.
Measuring cups – To portion out your rice broth and cream properly.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized chunks then I season it with salt pepper and paprika for a little warmth and flavor.

Step 2:

In a large skillet I melt some butter over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until it’s golden and just cooked through then I remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3:

I lower the heat slightly and add a bit more butter if needed then sauté the garlic until fragrant – about 30 seconds – just to wake up the flavor.

Step 4:

I pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer then I stir in the uncooked rice and cover the skillet. I let it cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5:

Once the rice is ready I stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar then I return the chicken to the pan and let everything simmer together for 5 more minutes until creamy and hot.

Step 6:

I sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving and give it a final taste test for seasoning – then it’s ready to dish up!

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Tips

If you’re short on time I sometimes use leftover rotisserie chicken and stir it in at the end. You can also swap white rice for brown rice or even cauliflower rice just adjust the cooking time accordingly. And if you want an extra burst of flavor I like adding a touch of Dijon mustard or a dash of cayenne to the sauce.

Ways to Serve

This dish is delicious all on its own but I also love pairing it with steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad. For an ultra-comforting touch I serve it with a piece of buttered bread or a soft dinner roll to soak up the extra sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use precooked rice in Creamy Chicken and Rice Comfort?

Yes just reduce the broth amount and stir it in after the sauce comes together.

Can I make Creamy Chicken and Rice Comfort ahead of time?

You can prep it in advance and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.

What cheese works best in Creamy Chicken and Rice Comfort?

Cheddar is my go-to but Monterey Jack or even mozzarella can work beautifully too.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Creamy Chicken and Rice Comfort a try it’s cozy satisfying and just what you need when life calls for something warm and nourishing. Let me know how it turns out or what delicious extras you decide to add!

Happy Cooking!