Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice

Name: Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 boneless chicken thighs (or breasts); 1 cup rice; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Homestyle Happiness

When I first set out to create this Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice, I wanted to combine rich flavors with comforting textures. The result exceeded my expectations! The tender chicken blends beautifully with tomatoes and creamy rice, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. I love that it’s hearty enough for dinner yet simple to make during a busy weeknight. Every spoonful is packed with flavor, making it a dish my family looks forward to every time I make it.

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-15T04:33:36.121Z

I've always enjoyed a good one-pot meal, and this Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice is one of my favorites. The secret lies in allowing the chicken to cook in the creamy tomato sauce, which infuses the rice with flavor while keeping it moist. The first time I made it, I was amazed by how the flavors melded together effortlessly, making the dish both simple and delicious.

To enhance the richness, I like to finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. This little tip adds a refreshing brightness to the meal, elevating it to something special. Trust me, once you try this, you'll be making it again and again!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy and rich flavor that satisfies cravings
Comforting one-pot dish perfect for family dinners
Simple ingredients that create a deliciously vibrant meal

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce in this dish is the key to its richness and depth of flavor. Using heavy cream adds a luxurious velvety texture while the diced tomatoes provide acidity and sweetness. Make sure to stir the sauce occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot during simmering. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with half-and-half, which will still maintain a creamy consistency but reduce the overall richness.

Don’t underestimate the power of seasoning in enhancing the flavor of the sauce. Adjust the salt and pepper as per your taste and feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano or thyme for added dimension. Simmering the sauce until it thickens slightly, about 10 minutes, will intensify its flavor and create a more cohesive dish.

Cooking Chicken to Perfection

Cooking the chicken thighs correctly is crucial for ensuring the meat remains juicy and tender. Thighs are preferable as they have a higher fat content compared to breasts, which helps keep them moist during cooking. Ensure that the chicken is submerged in the sauce; this not only helps with even cooking but also allows the meat to absorb the flavors from the sauce. To check for doneness, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

After simmering, shredding the chicken while it’s still warm will ensure it easily falls apart. If you encounter any resistance while shredding, it may indicate that the chicken needs a few more minutes in the sauce. Alternatively, you can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option; simply add the shredded meat at the end to warm it through.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken and Rice

4 boneless chicken thighs (or breasts)
1 cup rice
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start, as this dish comes together quickly.

Instructions

Steps

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Tomatoes and Chicken

Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once combined, add the chicken thighs, making sure they are submerged in the sauce.

Cook the Chicken

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken, shred it, and set aside.

Cook the Rice

Stir the rice into the tomato sauce, cover, and let it simmer as per the rice package instructions, usually around 15 minutes, until cooked and fluffy.

Combine and Serve

Once the rice is done, add the shredded chicken back into the pot, mix well, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

This dish can be served with a side salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

This Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for meal planning. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the rice and sauce if it thickens.

If you want to freeze the dish, it's best to do so before adding the rice. Freeze the creamy sauce with the chicken separately. When ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat the sauce, then add freshly cooked rice to maintain the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping into the sauce. Consider a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the rice. Alternatively, garlic bread can be a delightful addition, as its crunch contrasts with the smoothness of the dish.

For a pop of color and freshness, I like to garnish each serving with freshly chopped basil. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added layer of flavor, enhancing the Italian essence of the dish. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will also complement the flavor profile nicely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time for the rice as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, but the consistency and richness might differ.

→ What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can replace chicken broth with vegetable broth or water, but the flavor will be less rich.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick!