Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. The tender chicken, rich sauce, and fluffy rice create a meal that is both satisfying and delicious. It is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, the creamy sauce will have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water to thicken, if needed)
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups water or chicken broth
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This step is key because it builds a strong flavor base. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
In the same pan, melt the butter and add the diced onions. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma will make your kitchen feel inviting!
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan. Add the heavy cream, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water and stir it in.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
While the sauce simmers, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a separate pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil, then add the rice. Lower the heat, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Let it sit for another 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 5: Smother the Chicken
Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the creamy sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon a generous portion of rice onto a plate and top it with the smothered chicken. Pour extra creamy sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley for color.
How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Serve this dish hot for the best flavor. It pairs well with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance. For a cozy meal, serve it in bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
How to Store Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3–4 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier dish; they are less likely to dry out during cooking.
- Don’t skip the deglazing step! It adds great flavor from the browned bits in the pan.
Variations
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also swap out the heavy cream for a lighter option, such as half-and-half, if preferred.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts will work well in this recipe. Adjust cooking time as needed since they may cook quicker than thighs.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately and reheat before serving.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Make sure to use gluten-free chicken broth and cornstarch. Otherwise, the dish is naturally gluten-free.
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a delightful meal that is sure to please everyone at your table! Enjoy cooking and savoring this comforting dish.
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter and add diced onions. Sauté for 3 minutes until soft.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Add heavy cream, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- If a thicker sauce is desired, add cornstarch mixed with a little water.
- Rinse long-grain rice under cold water until clear.
- In a separate pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil, add rice, lower heat, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
- Let sit for 5 minutes and fluff with a fork.
- Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it in the sauce. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve over rice and pour extra sauce on top. Garnish with fresh parsley.
