Easy Chicken and Rice
This easy chicken and rice recipe features tender chicken and fluffy rice enveloped in a creamy sauce, making it a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1.5 cups long grain white rice
- 3 cups water or chicken broth
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning
- ¾ teaspoon salt plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper plus more to taste
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
Cooking Chicken
- Season the chicken chunks with Creole seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
Preparing the Sauce
- Remove the browned chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in flour, stirring continuously to create a roux, then gradually add chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in chicken bouillon powder, heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
- Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer to meld flavors, return chicken to the skillet, and heat through.
Cooking Rice
- In a separate pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil, adding salt. Stir in the long grain rice, cover, and let simmer until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
Serving
- Adjust seasoning in the sauce as needed. Fluff the rice with a fork, then serve topped with the creamy chicken sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Notes
For maximum flavor, ensure the chicken is seasoned well. Use good-quality chicken broth, and don't skip the fresh cilantro for garnish.