Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – A Comforting

If you’re craving rich, creamy comfort food, this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the perfect dish! Made with juicy, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and a velvety, savory sauce, this meal is hearty, satisfying, and easy to make in just one pan.

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy family dinner, this dish is simple, filling, and packed with flavor. Serve it with your favorite veggies for a well-rounded, delicious meal!

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Ingredients for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin fillets
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

the Rice & Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

Garnishing (Optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Season both sides of the chicken fillets with the spice blend.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Remove from skillet and set aside (it will finish cooking later).

2. Sauté the Aromatics & Toast the Rice

1. In the same skillet, melt butter and add onion. Sauté for 2 minutes, until soft.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add uncooked rice and stir for 1 minute to lightly toast.

3. Simmer the Rice & Sauce

1. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, black pepper, and onion powder.
2. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the rice.
4. Cover and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

4. Serve & Enjoy!

• Garnish with fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese, or a squeeze of lemon.
• Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, comforting dish!

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Expert Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

Use thin chicken fillets – They cook evenly and quickly.
Don’t rush the rice – Let it simmer gently for the best texture.
Sear the chicken first – This adds flavor to the whole dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken – It finishes cooking with the rice, so don’t over-sear it.
Skipping the toasting step – Toasting the rice adds a nutty depth of flavor.
Not covering the pan – This ensures the rice cooks properly.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, or sautéed spinach.
• Pair with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread.
• Add a side salad with balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

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

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of broth or cream.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Freezing:

• Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it dairy-free – Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
• Use brown rice – Adjust the cooking time to 35-40 minutes.
• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.

What to Serve with Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts
• A side of mashed sweet potatoes
• Fresh fruit salad for a light finish

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes! Just increase the cooking time by 5-7 minutes.

What’s the best rice to use?

Long-grain white rice works best, but jasmine or basmati are great options too.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.

Conclusion

This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a rich, comforting, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and bold flavors, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite!

Try it today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more cozy meal ideas!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 520 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings).

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Serves: 4

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