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–+ servings
Creamy smothered chicken served over fluffy rice in a comforting dish.

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

This comforting dish combines tender chicken with creamy rice, perfect for busy weeknights or quiet weekends.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs or chicken breasts provides moisture
  • 1 teaspoon salt enhances flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper adds mild heat
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder gives depth
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder adds sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon paprika provides warmth and color
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 2 tablespoons butter adds richness
  • 1 small onion, diced for sweetness and texture
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic flavor
  • 2 cups chicken broth adds moisture and flavor
  • 1 cup heavy cream creates a creamy base
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme offers earthiness
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley adds freshness
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper for seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water to thicken, if needed
  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice absorbs flavors
  • 3 cups water or chicken broth cooks the rice

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Set aside to infuse flavors.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken to the skillet and sear until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
  • Reduce heat to medium, add butter and diced onion to the skillet, and sauté for 3-5 minutes until onion is soft.
  • Add minced garlic to the skillet and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cooking

  • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stir and scrape bits from the bottom of the pan.
  • Add dried thyme, parsley, additional salt, and pepper. Let simmer a few minutes.
  • Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and let simmer until cooked through.
  • Rinse white rice under cold water until clear. Drain and set aside.
  • After chicken is cooked, remove from skillet. Stir in rinsed rice and additional water or broth.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook until rice is tender, stirring occasionally.
  • Return chicken to skillet on top of the rice, heat through for a few minutes.
  • Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 47gProtein: 36gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 12gSodium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g
Keyword comfort food, Creamy Chicken and Rice, easy dinner
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