Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Dinner Recipe (Print Version)
Creamy smothered chicken and rice makes a comforting one-pot dinner. Tender chicken breasts simmer in a rich, savory sauce with fluffy rice for an easy meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
→ The Velvety Smother
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
04 -
1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
05 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
2 cups chicken broth, low sodium
07 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
08 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened
09 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
→ Flavor Weavers
10 -
1 tsp dried thyme
11 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
12 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Fresh Finish
13 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Season 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Cook 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice according to package directions. This sets the foundation for your Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Dinner.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 4-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, add the 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
04 -
Sprinkle 2 tbsp all-purpose flour over the onions and garlic, stirring for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken broth, low sodium, until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
05 -
Add 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp dried thyme, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika to the sauce. Whisk until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
06 -
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Let the Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Dinner simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to warm through.
07 -
Serve the Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Dinner immediately over the cooked long-grain white rice. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for a vibrant finish.
# Notes:
01 -
For a different flavor profile, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
03 -
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli to add some fresh vegetables to your meal.
04 -
If you prefer, you can cube the chicken breasts before searing for quicker cooking and easier serving, ensuring they are cooked through.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
Saucepan
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Whisk
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 735 kcal
Total Fat: 40 g
Total Carbohydrate: 51 g
Protein: 59 g