One-Pan Stovetop Creamy Chicken and Rice: Your Ultimate Easy Weeknight Dinner
Discover the magic of a tender chicken and mushroom dish, infused with creamy rice, all cooked effortlessly in a single pan. This Stovetop Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe is the perfect solution for busy nights, promising rich flavors and minimal cleanup.
Growing up, certain dishes were mainstays in our family kitchen, and chicken and rice casserole held a special place. My mom’s version was a comforting blend of cream of mushroom soup, milk, rice, and a generous dash of poultry seasoning, all baked to perfection with chicken breasts on top. What I loved most about that meal was undeniably the rich, creamy mushroom rice that absorbed all the delicious flavors of the chicken and seasonings. It was a classic comfort food, the kind that warms you from the inside out and brings back a flood of cherished memories.
However, today, I’m excited to share a modern twist that takes that beloved classic and elevates it to new heights. This updated version of creamy chicken and rice is not just better, it’s a revelation! First and foremost, there’s absolutely no canned soup involved, allowing for a fresher, more natural flavor profile. What’s more, this incredible dish comes together in approximately 25 minutes, all prepared on the stovetop and in a single pan! Yes, you read that right – one pan, minimal fuss, maximum flavor. We’re also incorporating real, fresh mushrooms for an earthy depth that complements the chicken perfectly. And don’t worry, we’re still using plenty of milk (or even heavy cream for extra indulgence) to achieve that irresistibly creamy, rich texture that made my mom’s original recipe so memorable.
Finding inspiring chicken dinner ideas is a common quest for home cooks everywhere. Whether you’re craving something as sumptuously rich as Tuscan Chicken Pasta or a timeless classic like chicken and rice casserole, chicken offers endless possibilities. For me, mushroom rice pilaf has always been a go-to side dish, cherished for its aromatic qualities and satisfying texture. So, it was only natural to combine the comforting essence of a classic chicken and rice dish with my favorite mushroom rice elements, creating a truly delicious and satisfying one-pan chicken dinner that’s both familiar and wonderfully fresh. This fusion brings together the best of both worlds: the hearty appeal of chicken and the aromatic, creamy indulgence of mushroom rice, all crafted to deliver a flavorful meal without the usual culinary complexity.
Why This Stovetop Chicken and Rice is a Game-Changer
In a world of complicated recipes and endless dishes, this Stovetop Creamy Chicken and Rice stands out as a true culinary hero. Its one-pan nature drastically reduces cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is precious. The speed at which it comes together – a mere 25-30 minutes from start to finish – means you can enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal even on your most hectic days. Furthermore, by ditching canned soups in favor of fresh ingredients like real mushrooms and aromatic garlic, we’re not only enhancing the flavor but also ensuring a more nutritious dish. This recipe offers all the comforting familiarity of a classic chicken and rice dinner, but with an elevated taste and unparalleled convenience.
Key Ingredients for Your Creamy Stovetop Chicken and Rice
For the exact measurements and full printable recipe card, make sure to scroll down to the bottom of this post!
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes, are perfect here. They cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully. For an even richer flavor and juicier texture, you can easily substitute chicken thighs.
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing and building the flavor base.
- Onion – Finely chopped, it provides a sweet aromatic foundation for the dish.
- Mushrooms – Fresh sliced mushrooms add an earthy depth and wonderful texture, a significant upgrade from canned varieties. White button mushrooms or cremini (baby bellas) work wonderfully.
- Garlic – Minced fresh garlic is crucial for that pungent, aromatic kick that defines so many delicious comfort foods.
- Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, it imparts a classic, savory Italian-inspired flavor.
- Poultry Seasoning – This blend, often containing sage, thyme, rosemary, and nutmeg, is the secret to that comforting, traditional chicken flavor reminiscent of classic casseroles.
- Chicken Broth – The liquid base for cooking the rice and infusing the dish with savory chicken flavor. Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt content precisely.
- White Rice – Uncooked long-grain white rice is recommended as it cooks evenly and creates that desired creamy consistency. If you opt for brown rice, be aware that the cooking time will be significantly increased, and you might need additional liquid.
- Milk or Heavy Cream – This is where the magic happens for that ultimate creamy texture. Whole milk works well, but for an extra luxurious and rich finish, heavy cream is an excellent choice.
- Parmesan Cheese – Grated Parmesan cheese stirred in at the end melts beautifully, adding a salty, umami-rich finish that ties all the flavors together.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste, adjusting to bring out the best in all the ingredients.
How To Make One-Pan Creamy Stovetop Chicken and Rice
Preparing this incredibly flavorful and easy creamy chicken and rice dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a comforting meal in no time:
- Sauté the Essentials: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large, sturdy skillet over medium-high heat. Add your cubed chicken, sliced mushrooms, and finely chopped onion to the pan. Cook this mixture for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for the chicken to start browning lightly on the outside and the vegetables to begin softening, releasing their moisture and flavor. This initial sauté step is crucial for building a rich flavor base.
- Introduce the Aromatics: Once the chicken and veggies have had a head start, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to cook for just 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic; you’ll know it’s ready when you can smell its wonderfully fragrant aroma filling your kitchen.
- Season for Success: Now it’s time to infuse the dish with its signature spices. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir everything thoroughly until the chicken pieces are beautifully coated with the spices. This step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Cook the Rice: Pour in the chicken broth and add the uncooked long-grain white rice to the skillet. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet tightly with a lid, and let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid, as this allows the rice to steam and cook perfectly until tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Achieve Creaminess: After 20 minutes, check the rice to ensure it’s tender and fully cooked. If needed, cook for a few more minutes. Once done, remove from heat and stir in the whole milk (or heavy cream for an extra rich dish) and the grated Parmesan cheese. The residual heat will melt the cheese and warm the milk, creating that luscious, creamy sauce. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Stovetop Creamy Chicken and Rice is now ready! Serve it immediately while it’s warm and inviting. For an extra touch of freshness and color, you can garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of more Parmesan cheese. This dish is truly a crowd-pleaser and embodies the joy of a homemade, hearty meal with minimal effort.
There’s a special kind of satisfaction that comes with preparing a complete, flavorful meal in just one pan, and this creamy chicken and rice recipe delivers exactly that! It’s a huge hit in our house, and I’m confident it will be in yours too. The poultry seasoning, a key ingredient from my mom’s classic casserole, is generously included here, providing that comforting, nostalgic flavor I loved so much. Everything, from the tender chicken to the aromatic mushrooms and perfectly cooked rice, simmers together harmoniously, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just before serving, a final stir of milk or rich heavy cream brings it all together into a velvety, irresistible dish. Seriously, this easy, flavorful, and incredibly creamy chicken and rice is something the entire family will adore!
What to Serve with Creamy Stovetop Chicken & Rice
While this Stovetop Creamy Chicken and Rice is undoubtedly a complete and satisfying meal on its own, sometimes you might want to round it out with a few complementary side dishes. These options pair beautifully with the rich flavors of the chicken and rice and are conveniently easy to prepare, enhancing your dining experience without adding extra stress:
- Roasted Green Beans: A simple yet elegant side, offering a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy main dish.
- Italian Cheese Pull Apart Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce, adding a warm, cheesy, and garlicky touch to your meal.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a slightly bitter, earthy balance, especially delicious when roasted with bacon and balsamic glaze.
- Sautéed Asparagus: Lightly sautéed asparagus offers a refreshing green element and a delicate flavor that complements the richness of the chicken and rice.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the creaminess and add a vibrant crunch.
Variations and Tips for Your Stovetop Chicken and Rice
Customizing Your Dish
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other quick-cooking vegetables during the initial sauté, such as diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers, for added nutrients and color.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added with the seasonings.
- Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, added during the simmering phase or as a garnish, can enhance the aromatic profile.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses! A touch of white cheddar or provolone could add a new dimension of flavor to the creamy sauce.
Expert Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure your skillet is large enough to comfortably hold all ingredients. Overcrowding can steam the chicken instead of browning it and prevent the rice from cooking evenly.
- Rice Matters: Using long-grain white rice is key for the recommended cooking time and texture. If using medium or short-grain, adjust liquid and cook time accordingly. Avoid instant rice.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Once the broth is boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. This ensures the rice cooks through without sticking or burning on the bottom of the pan.
- Rest for Perfection: After the rice is cooked and you’ve stirred in the milk and cheese, let the dish sit covered for a few minutes off the heat. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This creamy chicken and rice makes for excellent next-day meals. Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
More Chicken Dinner Recipes to Explore
If you loved this easy stovetop chicken and rice, you’ll be thrilled to discover more fantastic chicken dinner options that are perfect for any night of the week. From quick weeknight fixes to impressive weekend meals, chicken is a versatile protein that always delivers. Here are some other favorites from our collection:
- General Tso’s Chicken – A popular takeout favorite, made easily at home with crispy chicken in a sweet and spicy sauce.
- Baked Chicken Parmesan – Classic Italian comfort food, featuring tender chicken breast topped with marinara and melted cheese, all baked to perfection.
- Garlic Baked Chicken – Simple yet incredibly flavorful, this recipe highlights the savory goodness of roasted garlic with tender chicken.
- Honey Dijon Chicken – A delightful balance of sweet and tangy, this chicken dish is quick to prepare and universally loved.
- Easy Coconut Chicken Curry – A fragrant and comforting curry featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy coconut sauce, perfect for a cozy meal.
Stovetop Creamy Chicken and Rice
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Equipment
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Pot and Pan Set
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1/2 cup whole milk, or heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add chicken, mushrooms, and onion to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is starting to brown and veggies are soft.1 pound chicken breasts, 1 Tablespoon olive oil, 1 onion, 8 oz mushrooms
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Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant3 cloves garlic
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Season with Italian seasoning, poultry seasoning, salt and pepper. Mix well.2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoon poultry seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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Stir in chicken stock and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and let simmer for about 20 minutes until the rice is cooked.2 1/2 cups chicken broth, 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
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Stir in milk and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.1/2 cup whole milk, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper to taste
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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