Delicious Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Yield: 4 servings

Smothered chicken and rice is a comforting, one-pan dinner that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice. This easy-to-make dish is a weeknight favorite that’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to satisfy the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the epitome of comfort food. The chicken is seasoned to perfection and cooked until tender, while the rice absorbs all the creamy, savory goodness. It’s a complete meal in one dish, saving time on preparation and cleanup.

Ingredients for Smothered Chicken and Rice

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet with a lid or a Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Add the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Whisk everything together until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Chicken

Stir in the rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed in the skillet. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low.

Step 5: Simmer and Cook

Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Use Bone-In Chicken: For extra flavor, substitute boneless chicken breasts with bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks.
• Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
• Low and Slow Cooking: Keep the heat low while simmering to ensure the rice cooks evenly without burning.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded cheese during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a creamy, cheesy finish.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
• Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve this creamy smothered chicken and rice with a side of roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or garlic bread. A glass of chilled white wine or iced tea makes an excellent pairing.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe combines simple ingredients with a straightforward cooking process to deliver a rich, flavorful dish. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it an irresistible meal, while the rice soaks up all the savory goodness, ensuring no bite is bland.

Conclusion and Call to Action

This creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and offers the ultimate comfort in every bite. Try this recipe today, share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

FAQ

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount as brown rice takes longer to cook.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare it up to the simmering stage and refrigerate. Cook it fresh before serving.
3. What can I substitute for heavy cream? Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, though the sauce may be less rich.
4. Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Yes, diced carrots, peas, or spinach can be added for extra nutrients and flavor.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free? Use gluten-free cream soups and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for a gluten-free version.

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