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: 2 cups of cooked rice; 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes; 1 cup of heavy cream; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon of dried basil; 1 teaspoon of salt; 1/2 teaspoon of pepper; 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Inspiration

I love making Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice for dinner because it offers a comforting, rich flavor that warms the soul. The combination of tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and fluffy rice creates a deliciously satisfying meal. It’s a family favorite that I often prepare on busy weeknights, and the simplicity of its preparation allows me to spend more time with my loved ones. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables, making it an all-in-one dinner option everyone will cherish.

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-15T04:49:36.379Z

When I first made Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create a dish bursting with flavor. I experimented with various spices and found that a touch of garlic and basil truly elevate the dish. It’s a wonderful recipe for showcasing fresh, seasonal tomatoes—especially in summer when they’re at their peak.

What surprised me most was how well the rice absorbed the creamy sauce, turning each bite into a delightful experience. I recommend using short-grain rice for an even creamier texture, and don't rush the simmering time; this allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that coats each bite beautifully
Savory tomato flavor with a hint of garlic and herbs
One-pot meal for easy cleanup and convenience

The Role of Ingredients

The combination of heavy cream and diced tomatoes creates a luscious sauce that envelops the chicken and rice in a comforting embrace. The richness of the cream balances the acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in a symphony of flavors that is both savory and satisfying. Using diced tomatoes with herbs can add extra flavor complexity without needing additional seasoning, making it a great choice for this dish.

Parmesan cheese not only enhances the sauce's creaminess but also offers a depth of umami flavor. When mixed with the warm rice, it melts beautifully, creating a cohesive texture. Using freshly grated Parmesan provides a richer taste than pre-packaged varieties, so if time permits, I always opt for the fresh option—it truly elevates the dish.

Cooking Techniques for Success

When cooking the chicken, ensure that the skillet is adequately heated before adding the meat. This step is crucial to achieve a golden-brown crust, which increases flavor through the Maillard reaction. If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken will steam instead of brown, so it’s better to cook in batches if necessary.

While sautéing the onions and garlic, watch for a light golden color and fragrant aroma. This indicates they have softened and released their flavors, forming the perfect base for the sauce. Avoid browning them too much, as burnt garlic can impart bitterness, compromising the dish's overall taste.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process:

Ingredients

2 cups of cooked rice
1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
1 cup of heavy cream
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of dried basil
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of pepper
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to measure out your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Create the Sauce

Pour in the diced tomatoes and heavy cream. Stir in the dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Stir in the cooked rice and Parmesan cheese until well combined.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, garnished with additional basil or cheese if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice!

Pro Tips

For additional flavor, consider adding some spinach or bell peppers to the mix during the sautéing process.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice can be made ahead of time, which is a fantastic way to streamline busy weeknights. Prepare the entire dish, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

For longer storage, this dish freezes well. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat. You may need to add a splash of water or additional cream to restore its creamy consistency.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Sauté them alongside the onions and garlic for a burst of color and nutrients. These additions not only enhance the dish’s visual appeal but also add depth to the texture and flavor profiles.

Serving suggestions can elevate your meal experience further. I recommend pairing this dish with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Additionally, a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic reduction right before serving can provide an extra layer of flavor that complements the rich sauce beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and may alter the final texture slightly.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a day before and reheat it when ready to serve. Just be sure to add a splash of cream if it thickens too much.

→ What sides pair well with Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice?

A simple side salad or steamed broccoli makes for a great complement to this dish.