Homemade Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe to Savor

Comfort takes on a whole new meaning with this creamy smothered chicken and rice dish that promises pure culinary magic.

Layers of rich flavors meld together in a symphony of deliciousness.

Home cooks will adore how simple ingredients create something extraordinary.

Tender chicken nestles into a blanket of velvety sauce, promising warmth in every single bite.

Subtle herbs and spices dance across the plate, creating a meal that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

Each forkful brings memories of grandma’s kitchen mixed with modern cooking finesse.

You cannot wait to dive into this incredibly satisfying meal that transforms ordinary ingredients into something spectacular.

How To Store Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring chicken and rice are completely cooled before sealing.
• Pack meal in freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label container with date and contents for easy tracking.
• Place chicken and rice in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat at 50% power for 2-3 minutes, stirring midway to ensure even warming.
• Warm chicken and sauce in skillet over medium-low heat. Add splash of chicken broth to restore moisture.

FAQs On Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. They cook evenly, absorb the sauce beautifully, and provide a lean protein option for the dish.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend when creating the sauce. This will maintain the sauce’s creamy texture while making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains juicy and tender.

Why Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice Is Awesome

• Maximize Flavor Punch: Packed with bold seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and two types of cheese, this dish delivers incredible taste in every single bite.
• Master One-Skillet Wonder: Prepare an entire meal using just one skillet, reducing cleanup time and making cooking incredibly straightforward for busy home cooks.
• Create Comfort Food Perfection: Creamy, cheesy sauce combined with tender chicken and fluffy rice transforms a simple dinner into a restaurant-quality experience that feels like a warm hug.
• Adaptable Family Pleaser: Easily customizable for different preferences by adjusting spices or cheese types, making it a crowd-pleasing option for picky eaters and adventurous food lovers alike.

Gathering Ingredients For Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

• Chicken Breasts: A lean and tender protein that serves as the star of this hearty and comforting dish.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Smoked Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper: A flavorful mix of spices that adds depth and complexity to the chicken.

• Olive Oil, Butter: Essential for searing the chicken and creating a rich, smooth sauce base.

• All-Purpose Flour: Helps to thicken the sauce and create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Milk, Chicken Broth: Provide the liquid base for a luxurious and velvety sauce.

• Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Add a rich, sharp flavor and contribute to the creamy consistency of the sauce.

• Thyme: Brings a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the chicken and cheese.

• Long-Grain White Rice: Serves as a perfect bed for the smothered chicken, absorbing the delicious sauce.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish to the dish and provides a pop of color.

Step-By-Step Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

Step 1: Season the Chicken

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Massage the spices into the chicken to ensure every inch gets coated with delicious flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the seasoned chicken into the hot pan. Let it sizzle and develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side. Once beautifully seared, transfer the chicken to a waiting plate.

Step 3: Cook the Perfect Rice

Grab a medium saucepan and combine chicken broth and a pinch of salt. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil. Gently add the rice, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let the rice simmer quietly for 15-18 minutes. When the liquid disappears and the rice is tender, fluff it with a fork and set aside.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

• Garlic powder
• Thyme
• Cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese

Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens into a luxurious coating.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Carefully return the seared chicken to the skillet. Lovingly spoon the creamy sauce over the top, ensuring each piece is generously covered. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to finish cooking and soak up all the incredible flavors.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Spread the fluffy rice on plates, then top with the smothered chicken. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the dish. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement!

Handy Hints For Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

• Sear for Golden Perfection: Pat chicken dry before seasoning to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in maximum flavor and creates a delicious crispy exterior.
• Cheese Melting Magic: Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties for smoother, creamier sauce that melts more evenly and tastes richer.
• Prevent Sauce Separation: Whisk the sauce continuously and maintain medium-low heat to prevent the milk from curdling and ensure a silky, smooth consistency.
• Temperature Control Trick: Let chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to help redistribute juices, keeping the meat incredibly tender and preventing dryness.
• Herb Boost Option: Swap dried thyme with fresh thyme or add chopped fresh parsley directly into the sauce for an extra layer of aromatic freshness.

Ways To Switch Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

• Protein Swap Chicken: Replace chicken breasts with turkey cutlets or pork tenderloin for a different protein experience. Adjust cooking times based on meat thickness and ensure proper internal temperature.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Rice Alternative: Substitute traditional rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, lower-carbohydrate version. Prepare cauliflower rice by pulsing florets in a food processor and sautéing until tender.
• Dairy-Free Modification: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk and nutritional yeast in place of cheese for a creamy, lactose-free sauce. Select dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well and complement the chicken's flavor.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Swap chicken with firm tofu or roasted portobello mushrooms. Season plant-based protein similarly and follow original cooking method for a hearty vegetarian main course.

Perfect Matches For Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

• Flavor Fusion Pairings for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
• Crisp White Wine Companion: Select a chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the rich, creamy sauce and complement the chicken's savory profile.
• Roast Vegetable Side Kick: Prepare roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts with garlic and olive oil to add a fresh, slightly charred contrast to the creamy dish.
• Bright Herb Accent: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives over the dish to introduce a light, zesty flavor that lifts the heavy cream sauce and adds visual appeal.
• Tangy Salad Partner: Toss a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a crisp, acidic balance against the rich chicken and cheese sauce.

Cream-rich Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

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4.8 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Indulgent smothered chicken and rice delivers pure Southern comfort in one skillet. Cheesy, herb-infused sauce blankets tender chicken over fluffy rice, promising pure satisfaction for hearty home-cooked meal lovers.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Herbs and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Cooking Base and Liquid Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (for sauce)

Sauce Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley (chopped)

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Instructions

1. Infuse chicken breasts with a robust blend of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper for deep flavor penetration.
2. Sear chicken in hot olive oil at medium-high heat (375°F) for 4-5 minutes per side until achieving a golden-brown exterior, then transfer to a holding plate.
3. Prepare rice in a saucepan by bringing chicken broth to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low. Cook rice covered for 15-18 minutes until liquid is fully absorbed and grains are tender.
4. Create a velvety sauce foundation by melting butter and whisking in flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to develop a light golden roux.
5. Gradually incorporate milk and chicken broth, continuously whisking to eliminate potential lumps. Integrate garlic powder, thyme, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, simmering 3-4 minutes until sauce reaches a luxurious, thick consistency.
6. Reunite seared chicken with the creamy sauce, gently spooning liquid over the protein. Reduce heat, cover, and allow chicken to finish cooking for 10 minutes, ensuring complete tenderness.
7. Plate fluffy rice as a base, crown with smothered chicken, and embellish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish. Serve immediately while sauce remains gloriously warm.

Notes

• Spice Flexibility: Adjust the seasoning blend to match your taste preferences or dietary needs, experimenting with different herb combinations like rosemary or oregano.
• Cheese Options: Swap cheddar and Parmesan with lighter alternatives like mozzarella or nutritional yeast for lower-fat or dairy-free versions.
• Protein Substitution: Replace chicken breasts with turkey, tofu, or plant-based chicken alternatives to accommodate different dietary requirements.
• Sauce Consistency: Control sauce thickness by gradually adding liquid and whisking continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Searing and Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 470 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 560 mg
• Fat: 21 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg