Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal, this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the perfect choice! Juicy, tender chicken is smothered in a rich, creamy sauce and served over fluffy rice for a dish that’s packed with flavor and warmth. This easy, one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra Creamy & Flavorful – A rich, savory sauce that coats every bite.
• One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup for an easy meal.
• Hearty & Filling – Perfect for a satisfying dinner.
• Family Favorite – Everyone will love this comforting dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4 pieces) – Tender and juicy.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Adds depth of flavor.
• Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Enhances the savory taste.
• Paprika (1 tsp) – Gives a warm, smoky flavor.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For searing the chicken.

For the Creamy Sauce:

• Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds richness.
• Onion (1 small, diced) – Brings a mild sweetness.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – A must for deep flavor.
• Chicken Broth (1 cup) – The base for the sauce.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a smooth, creamy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated) – Adds a salty, cheesy flavor.
• Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced, optional) – For extra heartiness.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional) – Adds color and freshness.

For the Rice:

• White or Brown Rice (1½ cups, uncooked) – A fluffy, neutral base.
• Chicken Broth (3 cups) – Infuses flavor into the rice.
• Butter (1 tbsp) – Keeps the rice soft and flavorful.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or pan
• Medium saucepan (for rice)
• Wooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and butter to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes (or according to package instructions). Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. If using mushrooms, add them now and sauté for 3 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth. Let the sauce cook for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Smother the Chicken

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is thick and creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Spoon the creamy smothered chicken over the cooked rice, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm!

What to Serve with This Dish

• Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus pair well.
• Side Salad – A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness.
• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Tips for the Best Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese – It melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Sear it well and let it simmer gently in the sauce.
• Make it Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze – Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat – Warm on the stove with a splash of broth or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs stay juicy and work great in this recipe.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese or omit the Parmesan.

What can I use instead of rice?
Try serving it with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Conclusion

This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to be a family favorite!

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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 450 | Protein: 35g | Carbohydrates: 40g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 600mg

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