Name: Chicken Rice Pilaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Butter; Olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 medium carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 1½ cups long-grain rice (e.g., Basmati); 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 bay leaves; ½ cup half and half; 1 cup frozen peas; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful and hearty meal. The use of long-grain rice ensures a light and fluffy texture, while the combination of chicken, carrots, celery, and peas adds both nutrition and taste. The addition of half and half provides a creamy richness without making the dish too heavy. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

butter
olive oil
large onion, chopped
salt
pepper
medium carrots, chopped
celery stalks, chopped
chicken breast, skinless and boneless, diced
long-grain rice (such as Basmati)
chicken broth, low sodium
bay leaves
half and half
frozen peas
fresh parsley, chopped
Parmesan cheese, grated

directions

I heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, I add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until it softens.
I add the chopped carrots and celery, season with half of the salt and pepper, and cook for another 3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
I add the diced chicken breast, season with the remaining salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink.
I stir in the rice, chicken broth, bay leaves, and half and half. I bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
I stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they are heated through.
I remove the bay leaves, garnish the dish with chopped parsley, and serve it warm, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes to cook, totaling around 55 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Protein Swap: I sometimes use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
Vegetable Additions: I like to add mushrooms or corn for extra texture and taste.
Herb Infusion: Incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary enhances the aromatic profile of the dish.
Dairy-Free Option: To make it dairy-free, I substitute the half and half with a plant-based cream alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Spice It Up: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives the dish a subtle heat.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, I reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, I can use brown rice, but I need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, as brown rice takes longer to cook and may require more broth.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

Can I freeze Chicken Rice Pilaf?

Yes, I let it cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, I thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.

What can I serve with this dish?

While it’s a complete meal on its own, I sometimes serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness and nutrition.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Certainly. I omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. I might also add more vegetables or plant-based protein sources like chickpeas for added substance.

Conclusion

This Chicken Rice Pilaf is a delightful, comforting dish that I enjoy making for its simplicity and flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that accommodates various preferences and dietary needs, making it a staple in my meal planning. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, it’s a satisfying option that never fails to please.

Chicken Rice Pilaf