Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Dinner (Print Version)
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting one-pot meal. Tender chicken and fluffy rice are coated in a rich, savory sauce for an easy weeknight dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Golden Sear
01 -
1 and 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Flavor Weavers
04 -
1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
05 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
07 -
1/2 tsp dried thyme
→ The Velvety Smother
08 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
09 -
1 and 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
10 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened
11 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
→ Fluffy Foundation & Fresh Finish
12 -
1 cup long-grain white rice
13 -
2 cups water
14 -
1/2 tsp salt
15 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Combine 1 cup long-grain white rice, 2 cups water, and 1/2 tsp salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until water is absorbed. Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
02 -
While rice cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season 1 and 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces, with salt and pepper. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, add 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp dried thyme. Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant. This builds the base for your Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe.
04 -
Sprinkle 2 tbsp all-purpose flour over the aromatics and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in 1 and 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring, until the sauce begins to thicken.
05 -
Reduce heat to low. Stir in 4 oz cream cheese, softened, until fully melted and smooth. Then, whisk in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Continue to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to become rich and velvety for your Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe.
06 -
Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir to coat the chicken completely. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. This ensures a perfect Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
07 -
Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Serve generous portions of the Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe over the fluffy rice. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for a fresh finish. Enjoy immediately!
# Notes:
01 -
Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened before adding it to the sauce to prevent lumps and ensure a perfectly smooth, velvety consistency.
02 -
Leftovers of this Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
For a different flavor profile, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
04 -
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli to add some fresh vegetables to your meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
Medium saucepan
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups
06 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 708 kcal
Total Fat: 30 g
Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
Protein: 60 g