This creamy smothered chicken and rice dish is a warm hug on a plate! Juicy chicken is cooked until tender, then nestled in a rich, creamy sauce with fluffy rice.
You won’t believe how simple it is to make this comfort food! I love serving it with a sprinkle of parsley on top—so fancy, right? It’s a family favorite for sure! 🍗❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer, thighs can offer more flavor and tenderness. For a leaner option, turkey cutlets work well too!
Heavy Cream: I love using heavy cream for a rich texture, but you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that coconut milk will add a different flavor.
Rice: Long grain white rice is ideal as it cooks well and keeps its texture. However, you can also use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: While optional, Parmesan adds a nice umami flavor. If you don’t have it, try using pecorino or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Moist and Flavorful?
Keeping your chicken juicy is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by seasoning the chicken well before cooking. It helps build a flavor base.
- Use medium heat for cooking so the chicken doesn’t brown too quickly before cooking through.
- Cover the pan with a lid when you let the chicken cook with the rice. This traps steam, keeping the chicken tender.
Always check that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat!
Enjoy making your creamy smothered chicken and rice! It’s a comforting dish that becomes a family favorite.
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
For the Rice and Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30-40 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 50 minutes. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. This will help infuse your chicken with lots of flavor!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and nearly cooked through. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the finely chopped onions. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells wonderful.
4. Adding the Rice:
Stir in the rinsed rice and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, coating it well in the onion and garlic mixture. This will give the rice great flavor and help it toast slightly.
5. Bringing It All Together:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Nestle the chicken breasts back into the pan, pushing them into the rice. Make sure everything is well mixed.
6. Cooking the Dish:
Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked, and the chicken is completely done.
7. Making It Creamy:
Once the rice is ready, carefully remove the chicken breasts again. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese (if using) into the rice mixture, mixing well to create a smooth and creamy sauce.
8. Final Touch:
Return the chicken to the pan and spoon some of that delicious creamy sauce over it. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Your creamy smothered chicken and rice is now ready to enjoy!
Dig in and savor every bite of your delicious and comforting dish!
FAQ for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! If you choose brown rice, just remember to increase the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes and add an extra half cup of chicken broth, as brown rice requires more liquid and time to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that coconut milk will give the dish a slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to refresh the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach can enhance flavor and nutrition. Just toss them in with the rice before covering the pan to allow them to cook down in the steam. Enjoy experimenting!
