Creamy Chicken and Rice – A Comforting Dinner Idea Easy Rice Recipe for Busy Nights!

 🍽️ Creamy Chicken and Rice 🥄 – The Ultimate Cozy Weeknight Dinner for Busy Nights! ⏰❤️

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💛 Why You’ll Love This Comfort Food Classic

Say hello to your new go-to meal for hectic evenings! 🙌
This Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe is everything you crave in one pot: rich, savory, and satisfying — with minimal effort and maximum flavor 🍗🍚💥

Perfect for:

✅ Busy weeknights
✅ Family dinners
✅ Cold weather comfort
✅ One-pot cleanup heroes 🧼✨

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🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything you need is likely already in your pantry and fridge! 🔄🎯

🍗 For the Chicken & Rice:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil 🫒
• 1 small onion, chopped 🧅
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
• 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked) 🍚
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth 🍲
• 1 cup milk or half-and-half 🥛
• 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese (for richness)
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste

🧀 Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) 🧀
• 1/2 cup frozen peas or broccoli 🥦
• Fresh parsley for garnish 🌿

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice

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🔥 Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
Add the cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until browned (5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.

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🧄 Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and soft.

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🍚 Step 3: Add Rice & Liquid

Stir in the uncooked rice, then pour in the chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.

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⏳ Step 4: Simmer It All Together

Add the cooked chicken back to the pot. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

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🧀 Step 5: Make It Creamy

Turn off the heat. Stir in sour cream (or cream cheese), and shredded cheese if using. Mix until creamy and smooth.

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🌿 Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Top with fresh parsley and serve hot — straight from the pot for a no-fuss, feel-good dinner everyone will love. 🥄💛

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💡 Pro Tips for Perfection

✔️ Use chicken thighs for extra juicy flavor
✔️ Want extra veggies? Toss in peas, broccoli, or spinach in the last few minutes
✔️ Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving for an even creamier texture
✔️ Double the recipe for easy lunches all week!

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❓FAQ

Q: Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Add it in Step 4 so it warms through without overcooking.

Q: What if I only have brown rice?
Brown rice takes longer to cook and may need extra broth — adjust timing and liquid accordingly.

Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
Totally! Let it cool, store in airtight containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.

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🥄 Final Scoop

When life gets busy and comfort is calling, this Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe delivers the perfect bowl of homey goodness 🏠🍽️ It’s rich, cozy, and ready in under 30 minutes — with barely any cleanup. Say goodbye to dinner stress and hello to creamy comfort 🙌💛