Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – A Comforting

If you’re craving a hearty, creamy, and comforting meal, this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the perfect dish! It’s packed with tender, juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, flavorful sauce that makes every bite satisfying. The best part? It’s a one-pan recipe, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping, or simply looking for a warm and cozy dinner, this dish will quickly become a favorite!

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Ingredients for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

the Chicken:

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

the Rice and Sauce:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Garnishing (Optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra shredded cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season & Sear the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Cook the Rice & Sauce

1. Add rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, parsley, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
2. Stir well, then bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
4. Cover and cook on low for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

4. Add the Cheese & Finish Cooking

1. Once the rice is cooked, remove the chicken and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
2. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

• Garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese, then serve warm.

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Expert Tips for the Perfect Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Use long-grain rice – It absorbs the sauce well without getting mushy.
• Sear the chicken first – This locks in moisture and adds a delicious golden crust.
• Let the rice rest after cooking – This allows it to absorb all the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not covering the skillet – The rice won’t cook properly without steam.
• Overcooking the chicken – Remove it once it reaches 165°F (75°C) to keep it juicy.
• Skipping the cheese – The cheese adds extra creaminess and flavor.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with steamed green beans or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Pair with buttery garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Add a side salad with balsamic dressing 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: Add a splash of milk or broth and heat over low until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it spicy – Add diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
• Use brown rice – Increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
• Make it dairy-free – Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese.

What to Serve with Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Cornbread or dinner rolls for extra comfort.
• Steamed broccoli or asparagus for added greens.
• Lemon wedges for a fresh, tangy touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes! Just increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything except the cheese, refrigerate, and cook fresh when needed.

Can I freeze this meal?

Yes! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the perfect one-pan comfort meal that’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prep, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Try it today and let us know what you think! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 580 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings).

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Serves: 4

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