If you live alone and want a comforting, affordable, and quick meal, one-pot creamy chicken and rice is the perfect choice. In fact, this hearty recipe requires minimal cleanup and reheats beautifully for another day. With a single pot and a handful of simple ingredients, you can prepare a balanced dish without the stress of complicated cooking.
Why One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice Works for Solo Living
When cooking for yourself, you need meals that are both practical and delicious. As a result, this recipe offers several benefits:
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Simple to prepare
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Requires minimal ingredients
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Doesn’t leave a sink full of dirty dishes
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Stores and reheats well for later
In addition, one-pot creamy chicken and rice combines protein, carbs, and healthy fats in one satisfying serving.
Ingredients
This dish uses accessible ingredients you probably already have:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, chopped
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1 garlic clove, minced
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150g (1 cup) chicken breast, diced
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100g (1/2 cup) uncooked white rice
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400ml (1 2/3 cups) chicken broth
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100ml (1/2 cup) milk or cream
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2 tablespoons cream cheese or grated cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: parsley or green onions for garnish
For example, you can get high-quality chicken broth and cooking cream online for better flavor.
Step-by-Step: How to Make One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice
1. Sauté the Aromatics
First, heat olive oil in a medium non-stick pan. Then, add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking over medium heat until soft and fragrant.
2. Cook the Chicken
Next, add the diced chicken to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden on the outside, about 4–5 minutes.
3. Add the Rice and Broth
Now stir in the uncooked rice and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Therefore, the rice will absorb all the flavor as it cooks. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Make It Creamy
After that, uncover the pan, stir in the milk or cream, and add the cream cheese or grated cheese. Meanwhile, keep stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens.
5. Garnish and Serve
Finally, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. As a finishing touch, garnish with parsley or green onions.
Why This One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe Works
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One pan only means faster cooking and fewer dishes
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Balanced nutrition: carbs, protein, and fats in one dish
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Easily adjustable: swap ingredients to suit dietary needs
Related recipe: Try our One-Pot Quinoa and Vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
Storage Tips for One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice
To keep your dish fresh:
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
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Reheat in a pan with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess
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However, avoid freezing for the best texture
In conclusion, one-pot creamy chicken and rice is a lifesaver for solo cooks. It’s fast, budget-friendly, and uses ingredients you already have. With minimal effort, you’ll have a wholesome meal that feels indulgent yet fits into a busy lifestyle.
Save this recipe or share it with a friend who loves quick, one-pot meals.