Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice

Name: Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cubed; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup rice; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups chicken broth; Olive oil

Highlighted under: Wholesome Meals

I absolutely adore this Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice recipe! It's one of those comforting meals that brings warmth and a full belly at the end of a long day. The rich tomato flavor combined with the creamy texture creates a delightful blend, and the juicy chicken adds a hearty touch. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a one-pot meal that my entire family loves. Best of all, it's quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-02-15T04:57:35.659Z

When I first made Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice, I was surprised by how easy it was to bring such depth and flavor together in one dish. My secret? Using quality canned tomatoes combined with fresh herbs for that authentic taste. The creaminess that comes from adding cream at the right moment gives the dish a luxurious finish that feels indulgent, yet it remains wholesome.

I’ve learned that simmering the chicken in the tomato sauce for just the right amount of time locks in moisture, keeping it tender and juicy. This dish quickly became a staple in my kitchen, and I often tweak the herbs based on what's in season.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich tomato flavor combined with creamy goodness
One-pot meal that saves on cleanup
Perfectly seasoned with fresh herbs
Great for meal prep or family dinners

Flavorful Fundamentals

The combination of throttling heat while cooking the chicken is crucial for achieving that lovely golden exterior while retaining moisture. Browning your chicken in olive oil is a great choice; it adds depth and richness to the dish. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot as this can cause steaming rather than browning. Work in batches if necessary to get each piece beautifully seared before moving on to the next step.

Incorporating garlic at the right moment can maximize its flavor impact. By adding minced garlic after the onions have softened, you're allowing it to infuse the oil without burning, which can lead to a bitter taste. This technique ensures a fragrant base for your creamy tomato sauce, making every bite of the chicken stand out.

Perfecting the Creaminess

When you incorporate heavy cream, take care to blend it gradually to achieve the desired luxurious texture. If added too quickly or in large batches, it can separate or become clumpy. Stir well until the mixture transforms into a glossy sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of chicken and grain of rice. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream alternative such as coconut cream, but keep in mind this will alter the flavor profile.

To heighten the creaminess even further, consider adding a splash of Parmesan cheese along with the cream. This not only enriches the flavor but also improves the sauce's thickness. It’s a perfect way to indulge your taste buds while making use of basic pantry staples.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice is versatile for serving options. I enjoy pairing it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce, making for a hearty and balanced meal. For a fun twist, try tossing in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers right before serving to add color and nutrients without changing the cooking time significantly.

When it comes to storing leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re looking to freeze it, consider omitting the cream before freezing and stir it in during reheating, as cream-based dishes can sometimes separate when thawed. Always ensure to reheat the dish gently on low heat, adding a little extra broth if necessary to restore the creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a delightful meal!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cubed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup rice
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups chicken broth
Olive oil

Make sure you have everything ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Time to cook!

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion. Sauté until translucent, then add the minced garlic and chicken. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Tomato and Seasoning

Pour in the diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Add dried thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to develop the flavors.

Incorporate Rice

Stir in the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Finish with Cream

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until well combined and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Enjoy your satisfying meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice just before serving.

Ingredient Swaps

If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic substitute for fresh chicken breast. Simply shred it and add it during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to warm through while absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce. This not only saves time but also enhances the overall satisfaction of the dish.

For those looking to make it a bit healthier, consider using brown rice instead of white. It will require a longer cook time—about 35 minutes—so you may want to add the rice and broth sooner. Keep in mind that brown rice will also absorb more liquid, so adjust your broth amounts accordingly to prevent drying out.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily adjustable for larger gatherings. For every additional pound of chicken, increase the other ingredients proportionally to maintain balance. If you’re doubling the batch, use a larger pot to avoid overcrowding, which can affect cooking times. Ensure to keep an eye on the temperature and cooking duration of the rice, as it may need additional broth for absorption.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, simply halve the measurements. This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Just prepare your ingredients as directed, and pack individual portions in meal containers, perfect to grab on hectic days!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that the rice isn't cooking through after the described simmering time, it may be necessary to check the heat. Ensure it's set low enough to create gentle simmering bubbles, as too high a heat can evaporate the liquid too quickly. Adding a splash more chicken broth can help salvage the dish and ensure the rice cooks properly.

Should you encounter a thin sauce after adding the cream, you can remedy this by allowing the dish to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken. If you're in a hurry, a quick whisk of cornstarch mixed in cold water can save the day—stir this into the pot and let it bubble until thickened. Always taste before serving to adjust any final seasoning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container and reheat when needed.

→ What side dishes pair well with Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish beautifully.