Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
An easy and comforting dish featuring tender chicken smothered in a rich, creamy sauce served over fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or chicken breasts Meaty texture
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds mild heat
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Infuses rich flavor
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Offers savoriness
- 1 teaspoon paprika Provides color and mild smokiness
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing and moisture
- 2 tablespoons butter Adds richness
- 1 small onion, diced Provides texture and flavor
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic depth
- 2 cups chicken broth Main moisture source
- 1 cup heavy cream Creates rich creaminess
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme Adds herbal notes
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley For a hint of freshness
- 1/2 teaspoon salt To taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper To taste
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch Mixed with 1 tablespoon water to thicken, if needed
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice Staple starch for the dish
- 3 cups water or chicken broth For cooking rice
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Set aside.
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, turning occasionally.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to blend and heat until combined.
- Stir in dried thyme and parsley, return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Rinse the rice under cold water and set aside.
- In a separate pot, bring 3 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil, add rinsed rice, cover, and cook per package instructions.
- Check the doneness of the chicken and thicken sauce with cornstarch if needed.
- Serve the creamy smothered chicken over the fluffy rice with sauce on top.
Notes
Searing the chicken before simmering helps develop flavor. Adjust seasoning to your taste. Rinsing the rice ensures a light and fluffy texture. Don’t rush the simmering process for best flavor.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g
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