Creamy smothered chicken and rice is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dining table.

Recipe Guide

With tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich and creamy sauce, served over fluffy rice, this meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s simple to make and always a hit with both adults and kids.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to whip up a comforting meal with minimal fuss. It combines the heartiness of chicken with the creaminess of sauce and the satisfying texture of rice, making it a complete dish. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and uses ingredients you might already have on hand.

How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

Ingredients:

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (About 1.5 pounds)
1 cup rice (Uncooked)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (Can be substituted with half-and-half or a non-dairy product)
1 medium onion (Diced)
3 cloves garlic (Minced)
1 cup frozen peas (Optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon parsley (Fresh or dried for garnish)

Directions:

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions using the chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor. Set aside when done.

While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Season the chicken breasts with paprika, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Place them in the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the remaining ingredients. Bring to a gentle simmer.
If desired, add frozen peas to the cream sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it in the creamy sauce. Allow to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken and blend the flavors.

Serve the creamy smothered chicken over the cooked rice, garnished with parsley if desired.

How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

This dish is best served warm. You can put a generous portion of creamy smothered chicken over a bed of rice on each plate. Garnish with fresh or dried parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.

How to Store Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

To store leftovers, place the creamy chicken and rice in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

Use fresh herbs for more flavor: Fresh thyme and parsley can elevate the dish.
For added richness, you can mix in some cheese, like Parmesan, into the creamy sauce.
Don’t rush the cooking of the chicken. Ensure it’s golden brown for the best flavor.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables. Carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli can be sautéed with the onions for extra nutrition and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and creamy sauce ahead of time. Store them separately, and then combine and heat them together before serving.

3. What can I serve with Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice?

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.