Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

A Comforting, Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a classic comfort food that brings together tender chicken, a rich and savory gravy, and perfectly cooked rice. This dish is a favorite for busy weeknights and family gatherings, as it delivers both warmth and flavor in every bite. The creamy sauce, seasoned to perfection, seeps into the rice, making every spoonful a delight.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a satisfying meal prep option, this recipe is both simple and delicious. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to adjust seasonings, proteins, and vegetables to suit your taste.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy – A luscious, flavorful sauce coats every piece of chicken.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dish beginner-friendly.
• One-Pot Meal – Minimal cleanup with maximum taste.
• Customizable – Use different proteins, spices, or vegetables to match your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Creamy Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Gravy

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir, cooking for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure no lumps form.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

1. While the gravy is simmering, bring 2 cups of chicken broth (or water) to a boil in a separate pot.
2. Stir in the rice, salt, and butter, then reduce heat to low.
3. Cover and cook for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 4: Smother the Chicken

1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet with the creamy gravy.
2. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
3. If adding mushrooms or frozen peas, stir them into the gravy during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Spoon rice onto a plate and top with smothered chicken and creamy gravy.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or shredded cheese, if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap – Use bone-in chicken thighs, turkey cutlets, or even pork chops.
• Dairy-Free Option – Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
• Spicy Kick – Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Extra Veggies – Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or carrots for added nutrients.
• Rice Alternatives – Use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a different base.

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Serving Size and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer:

• Freeze chicken and gravy separately from the rice in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore consistency.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my chicken from drying out?

Searing the chicken first locks in moisture. Also, simmer it gently in the sauce rather than boiling to keep it tender.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes! Shred rotisserie chicken and add it to the sauce, skipping the searing step. Simmer just until heated through.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half, whole milk, or even a mix of Greek yogurt and milk can work. However, the texture may be slightly less creamy.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the gravy.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sear the chicken, then place it in a slow cooker with the sauce ingredients (except for flour and cream). Cook on low for 4–6 hours. Stir in cream at the end.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything ahead, then reheat before serving. The flavors meld even better overnight.

What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?

If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in while simmering.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes! A sprinkle of cheddar or parmesan over the gravy before serving adds a nice touch.

What side dishes go well with this meal?

Steamed vegetables, a side salad, or garlic bread complement this dish beautifully.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes! Simply warm the rice and serve it under the chicken and sauce.

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Conclusion

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food, bringing rich flavors and satisfying textures together in one dish. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this meal is a guaranteed winner. Try different variations to make it your own, and enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!