When it comes to comfort food, few dishes satisfy like a hearty plate of creamy chicken with rice and buttered peas and carrots. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, from the tender chicken and creamy sauce to the fluffy rice and sweet, buttery vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, preparing a meal for guests, or simply indulging in a self-care meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
To create this delicious meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the creamy chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
For the rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt to taste
For the buttered peas and carrots:
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them in the hot skillet for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This allows the savory flavors of the onions and garlic to infuse the pan.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and stir in the thyme, scraping any bits of chicken off the bottom of the skillet. Let the broth simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly. For a creamier sauce, whisk in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. If you’d like the sauce thicker, add a tablespoon of flour and cook for another minute. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some of the sauce over the top, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Rice While the chicken is simmering, prepare the rice. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, chicken broth (or water), and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Stir in a tablespoon of butter for extra flavor and richness.
Step 3: Buttered Peas and Carrots In a small saucepan, bring some water to a boil and add the sliced carrots. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are tender but still slightly crisp. Add the peas to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Drain the vegetables and return them to the pot. Add the butter, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine. The butter will melt, coating the vegetables in a rich, silky layer.
Assembling the Dish
Once all the components are ready, it’s time to plate up. Start with a generous serving of the fluffy rice as the base. Place a chicken breast on top, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Arrange the buttered peas and carrots alongside the chicken, creating a balanced and colorful plate. The creamy chicken sauce pairs beautifully with the tender rice, while the sweet buttered peas and carrots add a burst of flavor and texture.
Tips for Success
- For extra flavor: Try marinating the chicken breasts for a couple of hours in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking.
- Vegetable variations: Feel free to swap out the peas and carrots for other vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or corn.
- Make it lighter: You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a combination of milk and a bit of cream cheese to reduce the richness of the sauce without compromising flavor.
- Adding cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top of the chicken just before serving can add another layer of richness.
Conclusion
Creamy chicken with rice and buttered peas and carrots is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pan meal that will satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal, a special dinner, or even meal prep for the week, this dish is sure to be a hit.
