Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet

Name: Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup fresh spinach; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Moments

I love how this Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet comes together in just one pan, making dinner both quick and easy! The creamy texture and succulent chicken mixed with perfectly cooked rice create a comforting meal that warms the soul. Plus, this dish allows me to sneak in some veggies without feeling guilty. I’m always on the lookout for family-friendly recipes that are both delicious and simple, and this one checks all the boxes for a busy weeknight dinner.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:05:37.943Z

Making this Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet was a spontaneous decision one evening when I didn’t want to spend forever in the kitchen. I decided to combine everything in one skillet, which not only saves time on clean-up but also lets the flavors meld beautifully as they cook together. The creamy sauce, enriched with garlic and herbs, really brings the chicken and rice to life.

What surprised me the most was how quickly the rice absorbed all the flavors. I used chicken thighs for extra juiciness, and incorporating fresh spinach added a vibrant touch. This dish has quickly become a staple in my home for its ease and delightful taste!

Why You'll Love This Dish
One-pan meal makes for easy clean-up
Creamy sauce with a hint of garlic and herbs
Juicy chicken and tender rice for a fulfilling dish
Quick to prepare on busy weeknights

The Role of Chicken Thighs

Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs in this recipe adds richness and moisture that can sometimes be lacking in chicken breasts. Thighs have a natural fattiness that keeps them juicy, allowing them to absorb the cream and garlic flavors beautifully. Cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, which ensures they're safe to eat while still being tender.

Another benefit of chicken thighs is their forgiving nature during cooking. They remain flavorful even if slightly overcooked, unlike leaner cuts that can dry out. When you're searing the thighs, look for a golden brown crust on each side, which adds depth to the dish's flavor profile.

Tips for Perfect Rice

Long-grain rice is ideal for this skillet dish because it cooks evenly and remains fluffy, enhancing the overall texture. When adding rice to the skillet, make sure to stir it well into the chicken broth to avoid clumping. A common issue with rice dishes is stickiness, which can be avoided by allowing it to simmer gently without vigorous stirring once the broth is added.

Always taste the rice before serving; it should be tender but not mushy. If it’s still firm after the 20-minute cooking time, you may need to add a splash more chicken broth and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Covering the skillet allows the steam to finish cooking the rice thoroughly, so don’t skip this step.

Customizing Your Skillet

Feel free to customize this Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet by incorporating vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or carrots. These can be added along with the rice and broth to cook through, adding both color and nutrition. If you prefer a lighter option, cauliflower rice can be used instead of long-grain rice; just reduce the cooking time since it cooks much quicker.

For those who enjoy a kick, consider stirring in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce with the heavy cream. You can also swap out the heavy cream for a lighter alternative like half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Adjust seasoning accordingly, as some of these alternatives may alter the final flavor.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh spinach
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a smooth preparation!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in rice and chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Add Cream and Spinach

Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, and fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot directly from the skillet for a cozy meal.

Enjoy your delicious preparation with some fresh bread or a side salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating some grated parmesan cheese just before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights. Prepare the chicken and rice mixtures earlier in the day, then combine them just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring they retain their creamy texture by reheating gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to return creaminess.

Freezing is also possible, but the texture may change slightly once thawed. To freeze, cool the dish completely, then portion it into freezer-friendly bags or containers. It should keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to avoid uneven cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Creamy Chicken Rice Skillet garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the dish, complementing the creaminess beautifully. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

This dish also works well for meal prep. You can portion it into individual servings topped with a sprinkle of cheese before baking for a bubbly, cheesy finish. Just make sure to adjust the baking time based on serving sizes; smaller portions will cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the sauce seems too thick at the end of the cooking process, simply add a little more chicken broth or cream and stir well to reach your desired consistency. The goal is a smooth, creamy texture that coats the chicken and rice without being overly soupy. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few additional minutes to allow some moisture to evaporate.

Another issue could arise from overcooked chicken, leading to a dry texture. Ensure you’re monitoring the cooking time, and consider using an instant-read thermometer for an accurate internal temperature. If you find that the chicken is overcooked, try shredding it and mixing it back with the sauce to help retain moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well, but make sure not to overcook it to prevent dryness.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a lower-fat alternative.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers or peas can be excellent additions.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.