Description
How to make creamy white cheddar garlic butter chicken rice skillet with tender chicken and aromatic rice that creates pure weeknight comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Base
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
Flavor Builders
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Creamy Elements
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Fresh Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced thin
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Pat chicken pieces dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let sit for 5 minutes while you prep other ingredients – this helps the seasoning stick better.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken pieces until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd – work in batches if needed.
- Build Base: Add butter, onions, and garlic to the same skillet. Cook until fragrant and onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The fond from chicken adds incredible flavor.
- Add Rice: Stir in rice, thyme, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Make Creamy: Remove from heat and stir in cream cheese until melted. Gradually add heavy cream, then fold in grated cheddar cheese until smooth and melted throughout.
- Final Touch: Return chicken to skillet and gently fold everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let rest 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Garnish Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and green onions just before serving. The fresh herbs brighten all those rich, creamy flavors and add beautiful color contrast.
Notes
- Remove from heat before adding cheese to prevent graininess and separation.
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Add splash of broth when reheating to restore creamy texture.
- Freshly grated cheese melts much smoother than pre-shredded varieties.
- Let rice rest covered for 2-3 minutes after cooking for perfect texture.
- Toast rice in butter before adding liquid for deeper flavor development.
Allergy Information: Dairy
Nutrition
- Calories: 485 calories
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 31g