This creamy smothered chicken and rice dish is like a warm hug on a plate! Tender chicken is cooked to perfection, surrounded by soft rice and a rich, smooth sauce that’s simply mouthwatering.
When I make this, the whole house smells amazing, and I can’t help but sneak a bite while it cooks. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy and perfect for any night of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but you can also use thighs for extra juiciness. Drumsticks work well too. Just adjust cooking time as needed!
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect because it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well. If you want to try something different, jasmine or basmati rice can be delicious alternatives.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture. For a lighter option, use half and half or milk, but the result won’t be as rich. Plant-based milks like coconut milk can be a good substitute for a dairy-free option, too.
Cheese: I love adding cheddar or mozzarella for extra creaminess. You could swap these out for any cheese that melts well, such as gouda or Monterey Jack.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Tender?
Cooking the chicken just right is key for this dish. Here’s how to make sure your chicken is always juicy:
- Start with evenly sized chicken breasts to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Don’t rush the browning process! Sear them on medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
- Pay attention during the simmering stage—try not to open the lid often to keep the steam in. This helps cook the chicken all the way through.
By following these steps, you’ll end up with tender chicken every time! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy smothered chicken and rice takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. This seasoning will add flavor to the chicken!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and brown each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, lower the heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Then, sauté the chopped onions and garlic until they are softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Mushrooms (if using):
If you want to add mushrooms, do it now! Cook them until they are tender, which will take about 4 minutes.
5. Cook the Rice:
Stir in the white rice, mixing it well with the butter, onions, and garlic. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the rice a little.
6. Pour in the Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to pick up any delicious bits left behind.
7. Simmer Everything Together:
Return the chicken breasts to the pan on top of the rice mixture. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
8. Make it Creamy:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken and set it aside for a moment. Then, stir the heavy cream into the rice mixture, making it creamy and luscious. If you’re using cheese, now’s the time to mix it in until it’s melted and fully combined!
9. Assemble the Dish:
Return the chicken to the pan, spooning some of the creamy rice over it. This is where all the flavors come together!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Then, dish it up and enjoy the comforting goodness of your creamy smothered chicken and rice!
FAQ for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, you can use thighs or even drumsticks if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times will vary slightly; thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce won’t be as rich. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk can work as a great substitute without compromising too much on creaminess.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You might need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to refresh the sauce!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the rice and chicken mixture ahead of time! Just cook everything up until the cheese and cream stage, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat in a pan, add cream and cheese, and enjoy!
