Smothered Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, juicy chicken with creamy, flavorful rice. This dish is rich, hearty, and packed with savory goodness, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. The chicken is seared to perfection, then simmered in a creamy sauce infused with aromatic spices, onions, and bell peppers. The rice absorbs all the delicious flavors, creating a one-pan meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Rice and Sauce:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
- Season and Sear the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and cream of chicken soup.
- Stir in thyme, parsley, and cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
- Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Rice:
- Stir in long-grain white rice, ensuring it is evenly distributed in the sauce.
- Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, covering them with the sauce.
- Simmer Until Done:
- Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low.
- Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve with garlic bread for extra indulgence.
- Add a side of coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken and Rice:
- Use Bone-In Chicken: For deeper flavor, try bone-in chicken thighs.
- Adjust Creaminess: Add more heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and rice in advance for quicker cooking.
This dish is a true comfort classic, bringing warmth and flavor to every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, Smothered Chicken and Rice is sure to be a hit! 🍗✨
For more variations, check out this recipe.