Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

Recipe By:

Hannah Mitchell

Posted:

March 28, 2025

Updated:

March 28, 2025

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The aroma wafting from the kitchen is nothing short of a culinary hug. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a rich, creamy sauce, nestled atop a fluffy bed of rice. This is not just any meal; it’s the Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe that turns ordinary evenings into cozy family feasts.

Picture this: it’s a rainy Tuesday night, you’re exhausted from work, and your fridge resembles more of a barren wasteland than a culinary paradise. You want something hearty yet effortless—enter my beloved creamy smothered chicken and rice. This dish has saved many a weeknight dinner with its soul-soothing flavors and quick prep time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy smothered chicken offers incredible flavor without the fuss of complicated cooking techniques
It’s visually appealing with its golden-brown chicken contrasting against the white rice
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, it satisfies every palate
The versatility allows for endless variations based on what you have at home

I once made this for my cousin’s birthday dinner, and let me tell you—a bowl of this goodness had them asking for seconds…and thirds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
White Rice: Use long-grain white rice for fluffiness; it absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its luscious texture; don’t skimp on quality here!
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding depth.
Garlic Powder: A must-have that enhances flavors; fresh garlic works too if you prefer.
Onion Powder: Adds sweetness without overpowering the dish; essential in creating layers of flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning that brings everything together beautifully.
Butter: For sautéing the chicken; it adds richness to your final dish.
Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish; adds color and freshness to your plate.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients on your countertop to streamline cooking. Chop any vegetables if you’re adding extras like bell peppers or peas.

Sear the Chicken: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Create the Sauce: Remove chicken from skillet once cooked through. In the same pan, pour in heavy cream and chicken broth while scraping up tasty bits stuck to the bottom.

Add Flavors: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper into your sauce mixture until well combined. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Add Rice: Stir in uncooked white rice into the sauce mixture carefully so all grains are coated evenly with that creamy goodness.

Add Chicken Back: Nestle seared chicken breasts back into the pan on top of the rice mixture. Cover with a lid and let simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes until rice is tender.

Enjoy this satisfying meal straight from the pan or serve it up in bowls garnished with fresh parsley for that extra pop!

Cooking doesn’t have to be an Olympic sport—this creamy smothered chicken recipe proves that even on your busiest days, you can whip up something truly special without breaking a sweat!

You Must Know

The creamy texture and savory flavors of this dish make it a family favorite
Cooking the chicken first ensures juicy meat, while the rice absorbs all the delicious sauce, making each bite heavenly
It’s a one-pot wonder that simplifies dinner time!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor, then cook the rice in the same pot to absorb all those tasty juices.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Using a meat thermometer can help ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F
Don’t skip the searing step; it enhances flavor significantly
If you want extra creaminess, add more broth when cooking the rice

Sharing this recipe reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would eagerly wait for seconds. The smiles around the table made all my kitchen efforts worthwhile!

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