CREAMY SMOTHERED CHICKEN AND RICE RECIPE

Looking for a hearty, comforting meal? This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe is packed with juicy, seasoned chicken, rich and velvety gravy, and fluffy rice. Made in one pan, this dish is easy, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a family, this smothered chicken and rice will be a new favorite!

🛒 Ingredients for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

To make this delicious smothered chicken and rice, you’ll need:

🐔 For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for extra flavor)

🍚 For the Creamy Smothered Sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese

🍚 For the Rice

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

🍽️ Substitutions for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Chicken alternative: Use bone-in thighs for extra juiciness.
• Dairy-free option: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk.
• Low-carb version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
• Extra protein: Add mushrooms or peas for more texture.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Follow these simple steps for the best creamy smothered chicken and rice:

1. Cook the rice: In a pot, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil, add rice and salt, then cover and simmer until fluffy.
2. Season the chicken: Coat with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
4. Make the sauce: In the same pan, melt butter, sauté onions until soft, then add garlic.
5. Add liquids: Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Thicken the sauce: Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
7. Smother the chicken: Add chicken back into the skillet, cover, and let simmer for 5 minutes.
8. Serve: Plate over warm rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

🌟 Mix-ins for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Crispy bacon – for extra crunch.
• Mushrooms – for a savory touch.
• Spinach or kale – for added greens.
• Crushed red pepper – for a spicy twist.

✅ Recipe Tips for the Best Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Simmer sauce slowly to avoid curdling.
• Make it a one-pan meal by cooking rice in the skillet with extra broth.

🥶 Storage Instructions for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

🔄 Recipe Variations for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Cheesy Smothered Chicken: Use extra cheddar for a cheesier version.
• Cajun-Style Smothered Chicken: Add Cajun seasoning and bell peppers.
• Garlic Herb Smothered Chicken: Increase garlic and add fresh thyme.
• Spicy Buffalo Chicken: Mix buffalo sauce into the cream sauce.

❓ FAQs About Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything, store separately, and reheat before serving.

What’s the best rice for smothered chicken?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice work best.

Can I bake this instead of pan-cooking?

Absolutely! Assemble everything in a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Add a slurry of cornstarch and water if you want a thicker sauce.