Name: Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds); 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 medium onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup frozen peas (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon parsley (fresh or dried for garnish)

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Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any meal. It combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce, perfectly served over fluffy rice. This recipe is an excellent choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s delicious, straightforward to prepare, and satisfying for everyone at the table.

How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

Ingredients:

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (About 1.5 pounds.)
1 cup rice (Uncooked.)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (Can be substituted with half-and-half or a non-dairy product.)
1 medium onion (Diced.)
3 cloves garlic (Minced.)
1 cup frozen peas (Optional.)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon parsley (Fresh or dried for garnish.)

Directions:

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions using the chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor. Set aside when done.
While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Season the chicken breasts with paprika, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Place them in the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the remaining ingredients. Bring to a gentle simmer.
If desired, add frozen peas to the cream sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it in the creamy sauce. Allow to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken and blend the flavors.
Serve the creamy smothered chicken over the cooked rice, garnished with parsley if desired.

How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

This dish is best served hot, right from the skillet. Place a generous portion of rice on a plate and ladle the creamy chicken on top. You can garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the sauce thickens while stored, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to regain its creamy texture.

Tips to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

Make sure to wash the rice well to remove excess starch, which can help prevent it from becoming sticky.
If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding your favorite herbs or spices to the creamy sauce.
This recipe can also be made using chicken thighs for a richer taste.
For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.

Variation

You can easily customize this dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Additionally, try switching up the rice with a different grain, like quinoa or brown rice, for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the rice fresh to keep it fluffy.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or water for a lighter flavor, but chicken broth gives the best taste for this recipe.