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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice: A Comfort Food Delight You Can’t Resist


  • Author: Melanie
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This dish is not only easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile, perfect for family dinners, busy weeknights, or special occasions. Let’s take a deep dive into the world of Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice, explore why it’s such a beloved comfort food, and give you a step-by-step guide to make it yourself.


Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth (or stock)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)


Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme on both sides.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat the olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Notes

Chicken Breasts: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook.

Rice Type: This recipe uses long-grain white rice, but you can substitute with brown rice or jasmine rice if desired. Keep in mind that different types of rice may require a change in liquid amounts and cooking time.

Creamy Sauce Variations: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. However, the sauce will be less rich. You can also use a dairy-free alternative, like coconut cream or almond milk, for a dairy-free version.

Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or basil for an added burst of flavor. A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can also bring a bit of heat if you enjoy spice.

Make It Ahead: The creamy chicken and rice can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or a simple salad to balance out the richness of the meal.

Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to a month, but the rice may change in texture slightly upon reheating.

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop, Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 500 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice, Chicken and Rice Recipe, Comfort Food, Easy Chicken Dinner