There’s nothing quite like a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, and our Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe does just that. This dish combines tender chicken smothered in a luscious cream sauce with fluffy rice, bringing a sense of home with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a quiet evening alone, this recipe is your ticket to a satisfying and delicious experience.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful meal:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipments
To prepare this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – Step By Step
Step 1:
Prepare the chicken by seasoning both sides with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2:
In the same skillet, add flour to the remaining oil and stir over medium heat. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once the mixture is smooth, stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them in the creamy sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 10 minutes, ensuring all flavors meld together perfectly.
Step 4:
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the uncooked rice, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and fluffy.
Step 5:
Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and serve it on a plate alongside the smothered chicken. Generously spoon the creamy sauce over both the chicken and rice, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
This dish is best served hot and can be enhanced with a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, to add more nutrition and color to your meal. Don’t forget to pair it with a refreshing iced tea or a crisp white wine to balance the richness of the sauce.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best results, ensure your chicken is cooked to the right internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you like a little zest, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a refreshing twist. You can also replace the heavy cream with a lighter option like half-and-half if you prefer a less rich sauce.
Protein Power: High-Protein Take on Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Boost your protein intake by doubling the chicken portions and using quinoa instead of rice. Quinoa is a complete protein and, when paired with the creamy chicken, becomes a powerhouse meal for those needing extra energy without compromising on flavor.
This high-protein version is ideal for athletes or anyone looking to support muscle repair and growth. The satisfying creaminess and hearty textures will keep you fueled and full for hours.
Low-Carb Delight: A New Spin on Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Looking to enjoy this delicious dish while keeping the carbs low? Swap rice with cauliflower rice which mimics the texture of traditional rice but with a fraction of the carbs. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the lightness of cauliflower rice.
This low-carb adaptation is perfect for keto enthusiasts or anyone managing their carbohydrate intake. Indulge in the flavors with a guilt-free mindset!
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use the microwave or heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
FAQs
- Can I freeze the creamy smothered chicken and rice? – Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to two months. Allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight containers or resealable freezer bags.
- What type of rice can I use? – You can use any type of rice you prefer, such as jasmine, basmati, or brown rice, depending on your taste and dietary needs.
- Can I make this dish dairy-free? – Absolutely! Use coconut milk or almond milk cream in place of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
- What can I use as a garnish? – Fresh herbs like parsley or basil work beautifully as garnishes, adding color and aroma to the dish.
- Is it possible to add vegetables? – Yes, enhance this dish by incorporating vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for a nutrient-dense meal.
- How do I prevent the sauce from curdling? – Make sure to simmer the sauce on low heat and avoid bringing it to a rapid boil to keep it smooth and creamy.
Taste the Comfort: Dive Into Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Our Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe offers a delightful journey into comforting flavors that are easy to prepare and a joy to serve. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this dish allows you to explore your culinary creativity with ease.
If you’ve enjoyed this recipe, feel free to leave a comment, share your variations, or even snap a photo and tag us on social media. We’re thrilled to see your culinary endeavors! 📸✨
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- boneless skinless chicken breasts
- olive oil
- salt
- black pepper
- chicken broth
- heavy cream
- flour
- white rice
- water
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet until golden on each side. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, whisk in flour, followed by chicken broth. Stir while adding cream, and spices. Simmer to thicken.
- Return chicken to the skillet, cover with sauce, and simmer on low heat for an additional 10 minutes.
- Cook rice by boiling water, adding rice, covering, and reducing the heat to simmer for 15-18 minutes.
- Serve rice with chicken and sauce, garnishing with parsley. Enjoy!