If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that delivers a delightful flavor explosion with each bite, look no further than this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe. This dish effortlessly combines tender chicken and fluffy rice all smothered in a creamy, savory sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal night, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless.
Rice: 1 cup of long grain, white or brown.
Butter: 2 tablespoons.
Flour: 2 tablespoons all-purpose.
Chicken Broth: 2 cups, low-sodium.
Heavy Cream: 1 cup for that creamy richness.
Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon.
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Parsley: Chopped fresh, for garnish.
Equipments
– Large skillet
– Medium saucepan
– Whisk
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Cooking spoon
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – Step By Step
Step 1: Sautéing the Chicken
Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat half of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 4–5 minutes until golden-brown but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Preparing the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking to combine until smooth. Allow it to gently simmer, mixing occasionally, until it thickens to a sauce-like consistency.
Step 3: Simmering with Cream
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, onion powder, and garlic powder. Allow the mixture to simmer and thicken for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it remains smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Cooking the Rice
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
Step 5: Smothering the Chicken
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet with the sauce. Cover the chicken with a lid, and let it simmer in the sauce for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
Step 6: Serving Your Creation
Once everything is cooked thoroughly, plate your rice, place the smothered chicken on top, and generously pour over the cream sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
This dish shines brightly on its own due to its rich, delightful flavors. Consider serving alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-balanced meal. Enjoy a comforting, homely dinner experience and watch smiles bloom as your family revels in its comforting layers.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a thicker sauce, consider adding a touch more flour when preparing the roux, but avoid overdoing it to keep the consistency just right. Subbing the heavy cream for cream cheese can add a slightly tangy depth to the sauce. Also, if crispy chicken appeals to you, try baking the chicken briefly after searing to create a crust before smothering it in the creamy sauce.
High Protein, Maximum Satisfaction
Adding some extra protein to your diet while enjoying this dish can be easily achieved. Simply include some chopped cooked bacon or grilled shrimp into the creamy sauce. Not only will it enhance the protein content, but it will also infuse the sauce with additional layers of flavor that will leave everyone craving more.
Low Carb, High Flavor Recipe Conversion
To transform this dish into a low-carb version, switch out regular rice for cauliflower rice. Cook the cauliflower rice separately and serve as you would the main dish. This simple swap creates a lighter dish perfectly suited to those seeking to maintain or embark upon a low-carb lifestyle without compromising on flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator within an airtight container for up to three days. For extended storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. Reheat them thoroughly on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens excessively.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs? Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and remain wonderfully tender.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? Half-and-half or coconut milk can serve as a substitute for heavy cream if desired.
Can this dish be made ahead of time? Yes, prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors meld beautifully after resting.
Are there vegetarian alternatives? Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
Experience the Creamy Perfection!
Whip up this delicious Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice and revel in the harmony of a savory, rich sauce and juicy chicken. Perfect to gather your loved ones around the dinner table and create lasting memories. If you try this recipe, don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below and spread the joy by sharing with friends and family!
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken breasts
- rice
- butter
- flour
- chicken broth
- heavy cream
- onion powder
- garlic powder
- salt and pepper
- parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat half of the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken on both sides until golden-brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter. Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, simmering until thickened.
- Stir in heavy cream, onion powder, and garlic powder. Let simmer on low heat until sauce is creamy.
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add rice and a pinch of salt. Cook as per instructions until water is absorbed.
- Return chicken to skillet with sauce. Cover and let simmer for about 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve chicken over rice, pouring sauce generously on top. Garnish with parsley.