This creamy smothered chicken with rice is a cozy dish that’s perfect for dinner. It features tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce served over fluffy rice!
You really can’t go wrong with a plate of this goodness! I love how satisfying it is after a long day. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a meal where everything cooks together? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for easy cooking. If you want, you can use thighs for more flavor or bone-in chicken pieces for a different texture. Both options are delicious!
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture. If you’d like to lighten it up, half-and-half works well too. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or cashew cream; the flavor will change slightly but still be creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice depth to the sauce. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan option, giving a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Rice: Long grain white rice is the standard, but brown rice or even quinoa can be used instead for added nutrients. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for those grains.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Tender and Juicy?
The key is not to overcook the chicken! Start by searing it to develop flavor, then turn the heat down for gentle cooking. Here’s how:
- Brown the chicken on both sides for about 4-5 minutes.
- Remove it before it’s fully cooked; the simmering in the sauce will finish cooking it. This keeps the chicken moist.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F.
By keeping an eye on the timing and temperature, you’ll have perfectly tender chicken every time!
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken with Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
For the Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups water or additional chicken broth (for cooking rice)
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, 30 minutes of cooking time, and the rice will cook during this time as well. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes to have this delicious meal ready to serve. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of your chicken breasts well with salt, pepper, and paprika. This will add fantastic flavor right from the start.
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil or butter. Then, carefully lay your chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and golden, then remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add your chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens. Add the minced garlic, and cook for another minute until fragrant. You’ll love that aroma!
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release all the tasty bits stuck to the pan. This is all flavor! Then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until combined. If you want to add a bit more flavor, sprinkle in the dried thyme now and adjust the salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the Chicken:
Return the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon some of that creamy sauce over the top, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F) and the sauce has thickened.
6. Cook the Rice:
While the chicken is simmering, grab a separate saucepan for the rice. Bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff it with a fork when it’s done!
7. Serve Your Dish:
Once everything is ready, serve your creamy smothered chicken over the fluffy rice. Make sure to spoon some extra creamy sauce on top for all the flavor! Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a lovely touch.
Enjoy your comforting Creamy Smothered Chicken with Rice! It’s a dish that warms the heart and delights the taste buds! 🍽️
FAQ for Creamy Smothered Chicken with Rice
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Aim for a temperature of 165°F to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and the sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and reheat gently when you’re ready to serve. The rice is best made fresh, but it can be cooked in advance as well.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce!
