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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – Easy Dinner Idea


  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

 A rich and creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe made in one pan for an easy, comforting dinner. Juicy chicken, velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked rice come together in this simple yet satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

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

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional Garnishes:

  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken
    • Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  2. Make the Creamy Sauce
    • In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onion until soft (about 2-3 minutes).
    • Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    • Stir in cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  3. Cook the Rice and Combine Everything
    • Stir uncooked rice into the sauce, ensuring even distribution.
    • Pour in chicken broth and mix well.
    • Nestle seared chicken on top of the rice mixture, covering slightly with sauce.
    • Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
    • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, adding broth if needed.
  4. Serve and Enjoy
    • Fluff rice and spoon sauce over chicken.
    • Garnish with parsley or Parmesan cheese.
    • Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Variations: Use brown rice (increase cooking time by 10 minutes), swap chicken for pork or turkey, or add vegetables like peas or mushrooms.
  • Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
  • Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and dairy-free soup.
  • Slow Cooker Option: Layer rice, broth, and sauce at the bottom, then add chicken. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
  • Oven Method: Assemble in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: dinner
  • Method: One-Pan
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: creamy chicken and rice, one-pan chicken, easy chicken dinner, comfort food, smothered chicken