Advertisements

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Advertisements

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Advertisements

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food—juicy chicken breasts cooked in a rich, velvety cream sauce and served over perfectly seasoned rice. This one-pan meal is hearty, flavorful, and easy enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. Packed with protein, wholesome ingredients, and plenty of flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Advertisements

Whether you’re searching for quick chicken dinner ideas, easy rice recipes, or a comforting meal that everyone will love, this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-pan convenience: Fewer dishes and quicker cleanup.
  • Family-friendly: Perfect for both kids and adults.
  • Budget-friendly: Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
  • Customizable: Easy to adjust seasonings, add veggies, or swap in healthier substitutions.
  • Meal-prep ready: Stores and reheats beautifully for lunches and dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients Breakdown

  • Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that cooks quickly while staying juicy and tender.
  • Rice: Provides the hearty base; cooking it in chicken broth infuses extra flavor.
  • Chicken Broth: Enhances taste while keeping the rice fluffy and aromatic.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, silky sauce. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a dairy-free substitute.
  • Onion & Garlic: Classic aromatics that build depth and savory flavor.
  • Frozen Peas (Optional): Adds color, texture, and a hint of sweetness.
  • Olive Oil: Perfect for sautéing and adding subtle richness.
  • Paprika, Thyme, Salt & Pepper: Simple spices that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
  • Parsley: Fresh or dried, it brightens the finished dish with a pop of color.

Advertisements

Tips and Tricks

  1. Cook rice in broth: This small change enhances flavor significantly compared to water.
  2. Use a meat thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
  3. Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Brown chicken in batches if needed for even searing.
  4. Thicker sauce option: Simmer longer or stir in a tablespoon of flour to thicken.
  5. Add veggies: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach pair beautifully with the cream sauce.

Variations and Customizations

  • Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
  • Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in ½ cup shredded Parmesan or cheddar to make a cheesy cream sauce.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice.
  • Herb Lovers: Swap parsley for fresh basil, oregano, or rosemary for a new flavor profile.
  • Protein Swap: Try boneless chicken thighs, turkey cutlets, or even shrimp.

Pairing Suggestions

  • Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad.
  • Bread: Garlic bread, dinner rolls, or cornbread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Wine: Pair with a chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
  • Side Dish: A light cucumber salad or coleslaw balances the richness of the dish.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze the chicken and sauce (without rice) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens.

Popular Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Cook everything as directed, cool, and store in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

Can I use brown rice?
Absolutely. Just note that it takes longer to cook than white rice.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk in place of heavy cream.

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Caroline

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy, seasoned sauce and served over fluffy rice — this comforting dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half/dairy-free option)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp parsley (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • wooden spoon
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • rice pot or saucepan
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear. Cook in chicken broth according to package directions. Set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Season chicken with paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme. Add to skillet and cook 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove and set aside.
  5. Lower heat and pour in heavy cream. Stir to combine with pan drippings. Simmer gently.
  6. Add peas if desired and cook 2–3 minutes.
  7. Return chicken to skillet, nestling into sauce. Simmer 5 more minutes to blend flavors.
  8. Serve chicken over cooked rice, garnished with parsley.

Notes

  • Add mushrooms or bell peppers with the onion for extra flavor.
  • For a lighter dish, replace heavy cream with half-and-half.
  • Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Advertisements

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating