Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice

Name: Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love this Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice. It's the perfect dish to enjoy after a long day, combining tender chicken with creamy, tangy tomato sauce. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up this comforting meal in no time. As soon as I sauté the garlic and onion, the aroma fills my kitchen, making it hard to resist. This dish has quickly become a family favorite, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-15T00:43:36.088Z

Cooking this Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice was a joy from start to finish. I started with fresh ingredients, like juicy tomatoes and succulent chicken, which really enhance the flavors. As the dish simmered, I was amazed by how the ingredients melded together, creating a beautifully creamy texture that pairs perfectly with rice. A tip I discovered is to let the chicken brown slightly before adding the tomatoes; this adds a depth of flavor that takes the dish to the next level.

This recipe not only satisfies my cravings but also impresses anyone I share it with. I enjoy serving it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. There’s something incredibly comforting about a one-pot meal, and this recipe has become my go-to for weeknight dinners. I can’t wait to hear how much you all enjoy it too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy tomato sauce that coats the rice perfectly
Tender chicken that melts in your mouth
A quick and easy one-pot meal for busy nights

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

Achieving the ideal creamy texture is one of the highlights of this dish. The heavy cream plays a pivotal role in creating a luscious sauce that beautifully clings to the chicken and rice. When adding the cream, monitor the heat carefully; too high of a heat can cause the cream to separate, so keep it on a gentle simmer. The sauce should become glossy and thickened, coating the back of a spoon, which indicates it's ready to mix in the rice.

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth. This will still yield a flavorful dish while reducing calories. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk can be used, adding a subtle sweetness that complements the tomatoes perfectly.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice stands wonderfully on its own, you can elevate the dish by serving it with a fresh side salad or crusty garlic bread. The combination of the creamy flavor with a crunchy salad adds a refreshing contrast. Consider a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to brighten the meal.

For a twist on this recipe, you could easily introduce vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic to add color and nutrition without compromising on flavor. I personally love adding a handful of fresh spinach right before serving; it wilts perfectly in the creamy sauce, enhancing both the visual appeal and the health factor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice

2 cups cooked rice
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Cook the rice according to package instructions if it's not already prepared.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.

Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink.

Add Tomatoes and Cream

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and heavy cream. Allow to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

Combine with Rice

Fold in the cooked rice until evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing process.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prepping. Simply cook the creamy chicken and rice as per the instructions, then let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. When stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or additional broth to loosen the sauce.

If you wish to freeze it, ensure it cools first and store in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat, adjusting the creamy consistency as needed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue you may run into is the chicken being dry or tough. To avoid this, make sure to cook the chicken until it's just no longer pink in the center; overcooking can lead to a less enjoyable texture. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy; chicken is done at 165°F (75°C).

If your sauce isn’t as creamy as you’d like, it may be due to high heat during cooking. If it starts to separate or clump, reduce the heat and whisk in a bit more heavy cream to rescue the sauce. Keeping the heat low while stirring will ensure a smooth consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure that you use gluten-free rice and check your seasoning for gluten content.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.