Delicious Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe for Dinner

Imagine a plate filled with tender chicken bathed in a luscious cream sauce, nestled atop fluffy rice that absorbs all the savory goodness. This creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms your soul on a chilly evening. As you take that first bite, the rich flavors dance on your palate while the aroma wafts through the air like a warm hug.

This dish has been a staple in my kitchen during family gatherings. I’ll never forget the look on my Uncle Joe’s face when he took his first mouthful—pure bliss mixed with a hint of disbelief that something so good was homemade. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply trying to impress your family on a weeknight, this dish is bound to leave them raving about your culinary skills.

Nothing beats hearing compliments from family around the dinner table when they devour this dish!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal; adjust based on how many you’re serving.
• Long-Grain Rice: Choose long-grain for its fluffy texture; it pairs perfectly with creamy sauces.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness.
• Heavy Cream: This adds richness; feel free to substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Onion: Sauté until translucent for sweetness; it enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring irresistible aroma and taste; don’t skimp!
• Your Favorite Seasonings: Think paprika, garlic powder, or Italian herbs; customize as you like!
• Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing the chicken and veggies; choose what fits your taste.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley adds color and freshness to finish off the dish beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Let’s dive into creating this comforting meal step by step!

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all ingredients. Chop onions and garlic finely so they blend well into the sauce later.

Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes each side.

Sauté Onions and Garlic: Remove chicken from skillet and add chopped onions. Cook until soft and translucent before tossing in minced garlic—let those flavors mingle for about 1 minute.

Add Rice and Broth: Stir in long-grain rice until coated with onion mix. Pour in chicken broth gently; bring everything to a boil while scraping any tasty bits off the bottom of the skillet.

Create Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to low once boiling. Stir in heavy cream gradually until combined—watch it transform into an inviting creamy sauce.

Add Chicken Back: Nestle your seared chicken back into the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in that glorious sauce. Cover with a lid and simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.

Once you plate this delightful creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe, get ready for some happy faces at your table! Enjoy every bite as it warms not just your stomach but also your heart!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then cook the rice while preparing the creamy sauce for maximum flavor and efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.

Cooking this creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe has become a cherished family tradition. I’ll never forget how my cousin declared it “the best thing ever” during last year’s holiday dinner.

FAQ

What can I substitute for cream in this recipe?

You can use Greek yogurt or coconut milk as a lighter alternative to cream.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but remember to adjust cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños during cooking for an extra kick!

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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

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Indulge in this comforting creamy smothered chicken and rice dish, featuring tender chicken in a rich sauce over fluffy rice—perfect for any weeknight dinner.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Olive oil or butter for cooking
• Your favorite seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, Italian herbs)

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Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients by chopping onions and mincing garlic.
2. Sear seasoned chicken breasts in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onions until soft; add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in rice until coated with the onion mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil while scraping the skillet's bottom.
5. Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream to create a creamy sauce.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing, Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 130mg