Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Dish

Creamy smothered chicken and rice is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together tender, juicy chicken with rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked rice. This one-pan meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with deep, savory flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience: Everything cooks in a single skillet or baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Rich and Creamy: A luscious sauce made from cream, broth, and seasonings smothers the chicken, infusing it with incredible flavor.
• Perfectly Cooked Rice: The rice absorbs the sauce and juices, becoming extra flavorful and delicious.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, whether adding vegetables, changing the protein, or using different spices.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

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

For the Sauce and Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with the spice mixture.
3. Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Rice

1. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then sauté the onions until softened (about 2 minutes).
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the rice, stirring to coat it with the flavors.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and condensed soup, stirring to combine.
5. Season with thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Smother the Chicken and Bake

1. Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, covering it partially with the sauce.
2. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top.
3. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
4. Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Stir in peas, mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Use a Different Protein: Substitute chicken with pork chops, turkey cutlets, or even salmon.
• Make It Spicier: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Use long-grain rice and avoid over-stirring once it’s in the skillet. Baking covered also helps it cook evenly without getting soggy.

Can I make this dish on the stovetop instead of baking?

Yes! After adding the chicken back to the skillet, cover and simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but it requires a longer cooking time (around 45-50 minutes). You may need to add more broth to keep it from drying out.

What’s the best way to add extra flavor?

Use homemade chicken broth, add a splash of white wine, or sprinkle in extra herbs like rosemary or sage.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Layer everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

What sides go well with creamy smothered chicken and rice?

Steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, garlic bread, or a fresh salad complement this dish well.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free condensed soup and ensure all seasonings are gluten-free.

How can I make this lower in fat?

Use low-fat milk, light cream, or a reduced-fat soup option.

Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Absolutely! Cheddar, Parmesan, or even mozzarella can add extra richness.

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything in the skillet, cover, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.

Conclusion

Creamy smothered chicken and rice is a delicious, fuss-free meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With its rich flavors, easy one-pan preparation, and simple ingredients, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Try it out today and enjoy a warm, comforting homemade meal!

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