Looking for a delicious and comforting meal that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe. With tender chicken smothered in a creamy sauce served over fluffy rice, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of flavors in this dish is simply irresistible.
This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

It’s great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Chicken:

Chicken thighs or chicken breasts: Choose your preferred cut of chicken for this recipe.

Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika: These seasonings add flavor to the chicken.
Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken.
For the Sauce:
Butter, onion, garlic: These ingredients form the base of the creamy sauce.

Chicken broth, heavy cream: Essential for creating a rich and creamy sauce.
Dried thyme, dried parsley: Add depth of flavor to the sauce.
Cornstarch (mixed with water): Used to thicken the sauce if needed.
For the Rice:

Long-grain white rice: The perfect base for this dish.
Water or chicken broth: Used to cook the rice, adding extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
Add chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the sauce thickens.

If needed, thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry.
Serve the creamy sauce over cooked rice.

Helpful Tips:

For a lighter version, use chicken breast and substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.

Add some vegetables like spinach or peas to the sauce for extra nutrients and color.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the proper temperature.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Allow the chicken to come to room temperature before cooking for more even cooking.

Let the sauce simmer gently to avoid curdling the cream.
Season the sauce to taste and adjust as needed for your preference.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a fruity iced tea for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use either cut of chicken for this recipe.
How can I make this dish dairy-free? Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.

Can I freeze this dish? While the sauce may separate slightly upon reheating, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months.

Conclusion:

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. Give this recipe a try and let us know how you like it! Enjoy!