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; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Comfort Creations

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice for dinner. This dish is not only comforting, but it also blends succulent chicken with a rich, creamy tomato sauce that’s perfectly coating every grain of rice. The best part? It comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. I love serving it with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top to add a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the overall flavors beautifully. It’s a go-to recipe that never disappoints!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-02-15T00:29:36.684Z

When I first tried my hand at Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice, I was amazed at how simple and flavorful it turned out. I used to think that creamy dishes required hours of preparation, but this recipe proves otherwise. The combination of diced tomatoes and cream creates a velvety sauce that blankets the chicken and rice.

While experimenting, I discovered that adding a touch of garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes really elevates the flavors. It’s become my family’s favorite dish, and they always ask for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that envelops the chicken and rice
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies

Perfecting the Creamy Tomato Sauce

The foundation of this dish's rich flavor lies in the creamy tomato sauce. When combining the diced tomatoes with heavy cream, make sure to adjust the heat to low-medium after adding the cream. This helps to prevent the cream from curdling and ensures a smooth, glossy finish. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce begins to slightly thicken and coats the back of a spoon. If you prefer a tangier sauce, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a hint of sugar to balance the acidity.

Remember to season the sauce thoughtfully. After you combine the tomatoes and cream, taste and adjust with salt and pepper. A dollop of Worcestershire sauce can also add depth. Feel free to incorporate herbs like oregano or thyme for additional complexity. Fresh basil, added at the end, not only garnishes your dish but infuses a burst of freshness that elevates the overall taste.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the best aspects of Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice is its versatility. You can easily swap in different proteins, such as shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option without compromising the dish's essence. If you're using shrimp, cook them just until pink, usually around 3-5 minutes, to keep them tender. For a fresh twist, try zucchini or bell peppers; simply sauté them with the onion for 2-3 minutes before adding the garlic.

If you find yourself with leftover vegetables or chicken, this recipe is an excellent way to utilize them. Just dice them into bite-sized pieces and throw them into the mix at the same stage as the chicken to warm through. This way, you minimize waste while maximizing flavor and nutrients. Keep in mind the cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetables you choose.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

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
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prep your workspace by gathering necessary utensils and ingredients.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour in the diced tomatoes and heavy cream. Stir to combine and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Serve

Serve the creamy tomato chicken mixture over the cooked rice, garnished with fresh basil.

Let the dish sit for a few minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the recipe for added nutrition and flavor. Spinach or bell peppers work really well!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm them slowly in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. This prevents the rice from becoming gummy or overcooked. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up during reheating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the creamy tomato mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. However, freeze the rice separately as it doesn't freeze well. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and add freshly cooked rice to retain its texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. For an impressive presentation, plate the rice first, then create a well in the center to spoon in the creamy chicken mixture. A sprinkle of vivid fresh basil leaves on top enhances the visual appeal and freshness. You can also drizzle a little olive oil or balsamic glaze for a sophisticated touch.

Pair this dish with a light side salad or garlic bread to round out your meal. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette reflects the richness of the main dish, providing a refreshing contrast. If you're entertaining, serve it family-style in a large bowl, encouraging a communal dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even shrimp for a different flavor.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Baguette or a simple side salad pairs beautifully with Creamy Tomato Chicken Rice.