If comfort food had an epitome, creamy smothered chicken rice would surely be it. This dish blends tender, juicy chicken with a creamy, savory sauce, all enveloped in fluffy rice. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme, dried
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice – Step By Step
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, place the chicken in the pan, searing each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. This step locks in the juices, making the chicken incredibly tender. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3 minutes. The aromatic base of onion and garlic sets the stage for enriching the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Add Spices and Liquids
Stir in thyme and paprika until they coat the onions, releasing their aromas. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Add the rice to the simmering liquid, followed by two cups of water. Stir well, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquids. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, covering the skillet, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Incorporate the Chicken
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy rice. Cover and cook for another 10 minutes on low heat. This final simmer allows the chicken to soak up the creamy flavors, while the rice fluffs up beautifully around it.
How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice
Garnish your creamy smothered chicken rice with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added burst of freshness. Serve warm alongside a green salad to balance the meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine for a special dinner occasion.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the creamiest sauce, ensure your cream is at room temperature before adding it to the pan, preventing it from curdling. If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in a tablespoon of flour before adding the liquids. Feel free to swap thighs for chicken breast if preferred, but keep a close eye to avoid drying out the meat.
High-Protein Twist: Protein-Packed Smothered Chicken Rice
Elevate your creamy smothered chicken rice by adding legumes like chickpeas or lentils for an extra protein boost. Integrate them as you would the rice for an added texture.
Low-Carb Variation: Creamy Smothered Chicken with Cauliflower Rice
For a low-carb option, substitute cauliflower rice in place of white rice. Follow the steps as you would for traditional rice, yet keep an eye out as cauliflower cooks faster. This swap creates a lighter yet still very satisfying dish.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the creaminess. Avoid using a microwave as it may alter the texture.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, though chicken breasts might require shorter cooking times to avoid overcooking.
- How do I prevent the sauce from curdling? Make sure your cream is at room temperature and add it gently.
- Can I freeze this dish? While possible, freezing may alter the creamy texture. If intended, cool completely before freezing.
- What other spices can be used? Experiment with herbs like rosemary or spices such as cayenne for a kick.
- How can I reduce the fat content? Opt for light cream or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk.
Join Our Culinary Discussion!
Delve into the depths of comfort with every creamy bite of this smothered chicken rice. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or an indulgent dinner, this dish promises satisfaction. We invite you to comment below on how your cooking journey goes, or feel free to share this recipe with fellow food lovers.
Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken thighs
- salt
- black pepper
- olive oil
- onion
- garlic
- thyme
- paprika
- chicken broth
- heavy cream
- long-grain white rice
- water
Instructions
Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, place the chicken in the pan, searing each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in thyme and paprika until they coat the onions. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the rice to the simmering liquid, followed by two cups of water. Stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, covering the skillet, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy rice. Cover and cook for another 10 minutes on low heat.