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Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet

Creamy chicken and rice skillet with parmesan sauce and green vegetables
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This one-pan wonder is a streamlined, flavor-packed weeknight dinner. It delivers the rich, comforting satisfaction of a long-simmered dish in under 40 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

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  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (like jasmine or basmati)
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter option
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning chicken
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove to a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the dry rice and toast for about 1 minute.
  4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Stir in heavy cream, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  6. Uncover and stir in grated Parmesan until melted. Fold in cooked chicken, fresh spinach, and frozen peas (if using). Cover for 2-3 minutes to wilt spinach and heat through. Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk and a dairy-free Parmesan. Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing chicken and do not stir too much while the rice simmers. Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.stacksipsnack.com/creamy-chicken-rice-skillet/