Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

This dish is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine succulent chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that dances on your taste buds while fragrant rice soaks up every drop of flavor. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to throw on your favorite cozy socks and curl up on the couch after dinner.

I still remember the first time I made this creamy smothered chicken and rice. My family gathered around the table, the aroma wafting through the air, and their eyes lit up with anticipation. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need to impress guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.

Everyone raved about how delicious it was, proving that sometimes simple recipes yield the most memorable meals.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work best; they cook evenly and stay juicy in the sauce.
• Long-Grain White Rice: Choose long-grain for fluffy texture; avoid instant rice as it won’t absorb flavors well.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; this adds depth of flavor without overpowering.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: A pantry staple that brings creaminess; opt for low-fat if you prefer a lighter dish.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic enhances the aroma as it cooks.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent to release its natural sugars.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin offers great flavor; use it to sauté vegetables before adding other ingredients.
• Paprika: Sweet or smoked paprika adds warmth; it’s optional but highly recommended for extra depth.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to taste preferences throughout cooking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion finely and mince your garlic cloves so they are ready to go.

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic until they turn golden brown and fragrant.

Add Chicken: Place seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet next to the aromatics. Sear each side until golden brown—about 5 minutes per side should do it.

Combine Sauces: In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with chicken broth and paprika until smooth. Pour this mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet.

Add Rice: Stir in the long-grain white rice gently into the sauce mixture. Ensure it’s evenly distributed around the chicken—this will soak up all those delightful flavors!

Simmer Away: Cover your skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let everything simmer together for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid.

By following these steps carefully, you’ll create a dish that not only tastes amazing but also fills your home with irresistible aromas that will have everyone flocking to dinner!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then prepare the creamy sauce while the rice cooks for optimal flavor and texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add veggies like spinach and mushrooms for a nutritious twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth.

Memories flood back of my best friend’s dinner party where this dish was devoured in minutes, leaving behind happy faces and empty plates!

FAQ

What can I substitute for rice in creamy smothered chicken and rice?

Quinoa or cauliflower rice are excellent low-carb alternatives that work well.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute regular cream with coconut milk or any dairy-free alternative you prefer.

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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

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• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy smothered chicken and rice is a delightful, one-pan dish featuring tender chicken in a savory cream sauce with fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until golden and fragrant.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear each side in the skillet for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
4. In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with chicken broth and paprika until smooth. Pour over the chicken in the skillet.
5. Gently stir in the rice to coat it with the sauce.
6. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can substitute chicken with turkey or use quinoa for a healthier option.