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Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice

Creamy Smothered Chicken And Rice
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★★★★★

5.1 from 30 reviews

A comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender boneless chicken breasts smothered in a creamy sauce served over savory chicken broth-infused rice, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme

Rice

  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Cream Sauce

  • 1 cup heavy cream (can substitute with half-and-half or non-dairy product)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon parsley (fresh or dried, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Cook the rice according to the package instructions, using chicken broth instead of water for added flavor. Once cooked, set the rice aside.
  2. Sauté Onions: While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and soft, bringing out their sweetness.
  3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Add the chicken to the skillet with onions and garlic, cooking for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature reaching 165°F).
  5. Make Cream Sauce: Remove the chicken from the skillet and lower the heat. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine it with the flavorful pan drippings and vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to thicken slightly.
  6. Add Peas: If using, add frozen peas to the cream sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through and tender.
  7. Return Chicken to Sauce: Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the creamy sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors and to heat through completely.
  8. Serve: Plate the cooked rice and spoon the creamy smothered chicken on top. Garnish with fresh or dried parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Notes

  • For extra flavor and texture, add mushrooms or bell peppers when sautéing the onions.
  • This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making it ideal for meal prepping.
  • Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative to create a lighter version.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy smothered chicken, chicken and rice recipe, creamy chicken breasts, easy dinner, one skillet chicken, creamy chicken sauce

Find it online: https://tastemadebyclara.com/creamy-smothered-chicken-and-rice/