Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Name: Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 medium onion, diced; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

By Elisa Levine

March 19, 2025

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The aroma of Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice wafts through the air like a warm hug on a cold day. Imagine succulent chicken swimming in a rich, velvety sauce paired with fluffy rice that absorbs all that tasty goodness. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to cozy up on the couch with your favorite blanket, ready for a Netflix binge.

This dish isn’t just about flavors; it’s about memories too. I remember making this on a rainy Sunday afternoon when my kids were little. The moment they walked into the house and caught a whiff of that delightful aroma, their faces lit up like Christmas morning. “Is it ready yet, Mom?” they’d chant in unison! This recipe is perfect for family dinners or those lazy nights when you want comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy smothered chicken and rice is super simple to whip up after a long day
Its flavor profile balances savory notes with creamy goodness that everyone adores
Visually appealing with its golden-brown crust, this dish will brighten any dinner table
It’s versatile enough to serve on special occasions or as a satisfying weeknight meal

I’ll never forget the look on my friend Sarah’s face when I served her this dish for the first time—mouth agape and eyes wide as if I’d just revealed the secret to eternal happiness.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many hungry bellies you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves; fresh garlic brings more flavor than your average jarred version.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control salt levels while adding depth to the sauce.
Heavy Cream: Essential for that creamy texture; no substitutes here if you want ultimate decadence!
White Rice: Long-grain works best; it cooks perfectly while soaking up all those savory flavors.

For the Sauce:

Butter: Use unsalted butter to help balance flavors without overwhelming saltiness.
Flour: All-purpose flour thickens the sauce beautifully; make sure to cook it briefly before adding liquids.
Paprika: Adds color and a subtle kick; I prefer smoked paprika for an added layer of flavor.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Kitchen Space: Gather all your ingredients and tools so you’re not running around like a headless chicken later on. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you’re at it.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant—about 3-4 minutes—until onions are soft and slightly golden.

Brown the Chicken Breasts: Season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika before placing them in the skillet. Cook each side until golden brown—about 5 minutes per side—then remove them from the skillet.

Create Your Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add more butter if necessary and whisk in flour until combined. Gradually stir in chicken broth while scraping up any tasty bits stuck at the bottom of the pan; let it simmer until slightly thickened.

Add Cream and Rice: Pour in heavy cream into your sauce mixture while stirring continuously. Fold in uncooked rice so each grain gets coated in that luscious sauce.

Combine Everything: Return browned chicken breasts back into your skillet atop the rice mixture. Cover tightly with foil or a lid and bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and rice has absorbed all flavorful juices.

As you can see, making Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice isn’t rocket science! It’s about creating those layers of flavor that bring everyone together around the dinner table—and trust me, they’ll keep coming back for seconds!

You Must Know

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is not just a dish; it’s a hug on a plate
The rich, velvety sauce combined with tender chicken creates comfort food that warms the heart
Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in front of the TV

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor, then sauté onions and garlic for aroma before adding rice and broth for a one-pan wonder.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add vegetables like peas and carrots for extra color and nutrition while keeping it delicious.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly tender chicken, avoid overcooking it during the searing process
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy
Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels in your dish while enhancing flavor

The first time I made Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice, my friends devoured it so fast I barely got a taste! That’s when I knew I had struck culinary gold.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I serve with Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice?

Pair this dish with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for balance.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but increase cooking time and liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to enhance heat without overpowering flavor.

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