why make this recipe

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will love. It brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice in one easy dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

how to make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon butter
½ small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup white or brown rice
2 cups chicken broth or water
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Extra Parmesan cheese

Directions

Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of broth or water to a boil. Stir in the rice and salt. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15–18 minutes (for white rice) or 35 minutes (for brown rice). Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Season & Sear the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season it with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until it’s golden brown. Remove it from the pan and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté the onions for 2 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer until slightly thickened.
Simmer & Smother: Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the top, cover, and let it simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Assemble & Serve: Plate the rice, top it with the chicken and creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

how to serve Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Serve the Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice warm, straight from the skillet. It pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad. This dish is also great for meal prep, as you can enjoy it throughout the week.

how to store Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

To store leftovers, let the chicken and rice cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

tips to make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the creamy sauce for extra nutrition.
If you like it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

variation

You can use other proteins like turkey or pork in place of chicken. For a vegetarian version, consider using mushrooms or tofu as a protein substitute.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice. Just be mindful that it will take longer to cook.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Is there a way to make the dish lighter?

For a lighter version, use low-fat cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese.