Pot Creamy Chicken Rice has always been my go-to for a quick, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug. I remember the first time I successfully made this dish in my Instant Pot; the aroma of savory chicken and fluffy rice filling my kitchen was incredible! It’s truly an easy creamy chicken and rice recipe that even beginners can master. This one-pot wonder delivers tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice swimming in a rich, velvety sauce, making it the ultimate comfort food. Let’s get cooking this delicious pot creamy chicken rice together!

Why You’ll Love This Pot Creamy Chicken Rice

This dish is a winner for so many reasons. It’s the ultimate weeknight meal that practically cooks itself!

• It’s a true one-pot creamy chicken and rice wonder, meaning less cleanup for you.
• The flavor is pure comfort food creamy chicken rice bliss.
• It’s incredibly easy to prepare, even on your busiest evenings.
• The chicken stays wonderfully tender and moist.
• Rice absorbs all the delicious savory and creamy flavors.
• It’s a fantastic way to get a satisfying dinner on the table quickly.
• The creamy sauce is rich and decadent, perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients for Pot Creamy Chicken Rice

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need for this easy creamy chicken and rice recipe:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces – using breasts keeps it lighter, but thighs work too!
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the chicken
• 1 cup uncooked white rice – long-grain white rice is best for texture
• 2 cups chicken broth – the base for our creamy sauce
• 1 cup milk – adds to the creaminess without being too heavy
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – for that extra rich, decadent finish
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – essential for savory flavor
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – complements the garlic beautifully
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground is always best
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish – adds a pop of color and freshness

For a complete meal, consider adding frozen peas or carrots during the last few minutes of cooking for a vibrant creamy chicken rice with vegetables.

How to Make Pot Creamy Chicken Rice

Let’s get this comforting meal going! Follow these simple steps for your Instant Pot creamy chicken rice.

1. Step 1: Start by seasoning your chicken. I like to cut 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized, 1-inch pieces. Then, I toss them with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. This simple seasoning step really builds the flavor.
2. Step 2: Now, let’s get that chicken browned. Set your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Once it’s hot, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Carefully add your seasoned chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. You want a nice sear, which adds depth to the dish.
3. Step 3: Remove the browned chicken from the Instant Pot and set it aside on a plate. Don’t wipe out the pot; those browned bits are flavor gold!
4. Step 4: Time for the rice! Add 1 cup uncooked white rice and 2 cups chicken broth to the Instant Pot. Give it a good stir to scrape up any tasty bits from the bottom. This is a crucial part of how to make creamy chicken rice so flavorful.
5. Step 5: Return the browned chicken back into the pot with the rice and broth. Give it another gentle stir.
6. Step 6: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure the steam release valve is set to the ‘Sealing’ position.
7. Step 7: Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. The anticipation builds as the pot does its magic!
8. Step 8: Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes. After those 5 minutes, carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
9. Step 9: Carefully open the lid. You’ll see fluffy rice and tender chicken! Now, stir in 1 cup milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream.
10. Step 10: Stir gently until the sauce becomes wonderfully creamy and everything is heated through. This is how to make creamy chicken rice truly luscious.
11. Step 11: Garnish your delicious pot creamy chicken rice with 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy this amazing comfort food creamy chicken rice!

Pro Tips for the Best Pot Creamy Chicken Rice

Want to elevate your pot creamy chicken rice from good to absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference.

• For an extra rich flavor, swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay incredibly moist and add a deeper savory note to your dish.
• Don’t skip browning the chicken! Those little browned bits left in the Instant Pot after sautéing, called the “fond,” are packed with flavor and contribute to the overall deliciousness of your one-pot creamy chicken and rice.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, a simple cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) stirred in at the end will do the trick.

What’s the secret to perfect Pot Creamy Chicken Rice?

The real secret to achieving the best creamy chicken rice recipe lies in building flavor layers. Browning the chicken and deglazing the pot with broth creates a rich foundation. Using both milk and heavy cream ensures a luscious, velvety texture that’s truly comforting. For more on building flavor, check out these tips on ingredients.

Can I make Pot Creamy Chicken Rice ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and even brown the chicken a day in advance. Store the browned chicken and uncooked rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply add everything to the Instant Pot as per the instructions.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pot Creamy Chicken Rice?

A common pitfall with one dish creamy chicken rice is overcooking the rice, leading to a mushy texture. Ensure you use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and pressure cooking time. Also, avoid opening the lid during the pressure release phase to maintain proper cooking conditions. Learn more about grain cooking techniques.

Best Ways to Serve Pot Creamy Chicken Rice

This delightful pot creamy chicken rice is a meal in itself, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to create a complete and satisfying creamy chicken and rice dinner. For a fresh contrast to the rich, creamy flavors, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is always a winner. Steamed green beans or a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives over the top also add a lovely touch of color and freshness.

Nutrition Facts for Pot Creamy Chicken Rice

This creamy chicken rice recipe offers a satisfying meal with balanced nutrition. Here’s a breakdown per serving of this comforting dish:

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg
• Sodium: 600 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in this easy creamy chicken and rice recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Pot Creamy Chicken Rice

This delicious pot creamy chicken rice is fantastic for leftovers, making it a perfect meal prep option. Once it has cooled slightly, transfer any remaining pot creamy chicken rice into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, it freezes beautifully! Just place it in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it should stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. For a quick reheat, you can microwave individual portions until heated through. Alternatively, if you’re looking to recreate that stovetop magic, gently reheat it in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, almost like making a quick creamy chicken rice skillet meal.

Variations of Pot Creamy Chicken Rice You Can Try

This versatile pot creamy chicken rice is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try a healthy creamy chicken rice recipe by using chicken thighs and swapping the heavy cream for a lighter milk or even Greek yogurt for extra protein. For a heartier meal, consider turning it into a creamy chicken rice casserole by transferring the cooked mixture to a baking dish, topping it with cheese or breadcrumbs, and baking until golden and bubbly. You can also amp up the flavor by adding different vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pot Creamy Chicken Rice

What is creamy chicken rice?

Creamy chicken rice is a comforting dish made with tender chicken and fluffy rice simmered in a rich, velvety sauce. It’s a popular one-pot meal that’s incredibly satisfying and easy to prepare, often using an Instant Pot or a skillet for convenience.

Why is creamy chicken rice good?

This dish is beloved because it offers a perfect balance of savory chicken, tender rice, and a decadent, creamy sauce that coats every bite. It’s the ultimate comfort food, ideal for busy weeknights or when you just need a warm, home-cooked meal. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can! If you opt for brown rice in your pot creamy chicken rice, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires a longer pressure cooking time, usually around 20-25 minutes on high pressure, with a natural pressure release. You might also need to add a little extra liquid to ensure the rice cooks properly. For more on grain cultivation, explore this resource.

How do I make the sauce thicker if my pot creamy chicken rice isn’t creamy enough?

If your creamy chicken rice skillet dish needs a thicker sauce, a simple cornstarch slurry is your best friend. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then stir it into the pot during the final step when you add the milk and cream. Let it simmer for a minute or two, stirring gently, until the sauce reaches your desired creamy consistency.

Pot Creamy Chicken Rice: Easy 10-Min Magic

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy a comforting and flavorful Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Rice, a simple one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Tender chicken and fluffy rice are simmered in a rich, creamy sauce for a satisfying dish.

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Ingredients

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• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Set the Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function and add olive oil. Once hot, brown the chicken pieces on all sides.
3. Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and set aside.
4. Add the uncooked rice and chicken broth to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the Instant Pot.
6. Secure the lid and set the valve to the ‘Sealing’ position.
7. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
8. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
9. Carefully open the lid. Stir in the milk and heavy cream.
10. Stir until the sauce is creamy and heated through.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving your creamy chicken rice.

Notes

• You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
• Add frozen peas or carrots during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added vegetables.
• Adjust seasonings to your preference.
• For a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the pot during step 9.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Instant Pot
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg