Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the perfect comfort food that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, creamy sauce, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. This recipe is not only indulgent and flavorful but also super easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The creaminess from the sauce, paired with the seasoning and tender chicken, will have you coming back for seconds. It’s a one-pan dish that feels fancy yet is so simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a family or looking for a hearty meal, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Add cheese and seasonings: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and dried thyme, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the chicken. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Spoon the cooked rice onto serving plates, then top with the smothered chicken and creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Different Proteins: Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs or pork chops for a different flavor. If using chicken thighs, adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu, and adjust the seasoning to complement the plant-based protein.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce to bring some heat to the dish.
- Cheese Variety: Swap out cheddar cheese for other melting cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the dish in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to rehydrate the sauce as needed.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe and can add extra flavor and tenderness. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat and serve over freshly cooked rice.
3. Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice if you prefer a lower-carb option.
4. Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute, and replace the cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
5. Can I add vegetables to the creamy sauce?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms would work wonderfully in this dish and make it even more hearty.
6. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy.
7. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy chicken and sauce separately. Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container, and it will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.
8. Can I use a different cheese?
Definitely! While cheddar is great for this dish, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
9. How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water, or allow the sauce to simmer for a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
10. What sides can I serve with this dish?
This creamy smothered chicken and rice pairs wonderfully with simple sides like roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or steamed broccoli.
Conclusion
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that will satisfy your cravings for something rich and hearty. With tender chicken, a creamy, cheesy sauce, and a perfect bed of rice, this recipe is the ultimate weeknight meal. It’s versatile, quick, and packed with flavor, making it the ideal choice for busy nights or when you’re looking for a comforting dinner option. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a delicious meal that everyone will love!
Print
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Looking for a comforting, creamy meal? This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe features tender chicken, a rich, cheesy sauce, and fluffy rice for a satisfying, indulgent dinner. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion for 3 minutes, until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Liquids: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, cooking for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over it. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Serve: Spoon cooked rice onto plates and top with smothered chicken and sauce. Garnish with parsley if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately for a creamy, cheesy dinner!
Notes
- Different Proteins: Swap chicken for chicken thighs or pork chops. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms or tofu as a protein alternative.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.
- Cheese Variety: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
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