The Ultimate Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe For Dinner

Rich Southern kitchens have perfected this incredible smothered chicken and rice dish that warms hearts faster than grandma’s embrace.

Generations of cooks passed down secret techniques for creating deeply comforting meals.

Succulent chicken pieces nestle into creamy, flavorful rice with remarkable tenderness.

Fragrant herbs and carefully layered seasonings make this recipe sing with southern charm.

Each bite promises a connection to traditional home cooking that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

Crispy edges and luxurious sauce guarantee you’ll want seconds before finishing your first serving.

Let’s unlock the magic of this soulful culinary treasure together.

Pairings to Serve with Creamy Chicken and Rice

• Select a crisp, medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy chicken and rice dish. These wines cut through the richness while enhancing the subtle garlic and herb flavors.
• Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the dish's creaminess. The peppery greens and tangy dressing will provide a fresh contrast to the rich, smooth chicken and rice.
• Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top to add brightness and a pop of color. These herbs will introduce a subtle, zesty element that lifts the overall flavor profile of the creamy chicken.

Storage Advice for Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days maximum.
• Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with date and freeze up to 3 months. Avoid freezing rice and chicken with vegetables for best texture.
• Preheat to 350F. Place leftovers in covered baking dish, add 2-3 tablespoons chicken broth to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.
• Place portion on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Check temperature to ensure hot throughout.

FAQs

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they cook evenly and absorb flavors well.

• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust cooking time and liquid amount, as brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking.

• Is this dish considered gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

• How can I make the dish more protein-rich?

Add extra protein by mixing in cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking.

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice That Comforts

• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: This smothered chicken and rice recipe offers a hassle-free one-pan meal that transforms ordinary ingredients into a delicious dinner with minimal kitchen effort.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with creamy texture and rich flavors, this dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinner nights.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Combining protein-rich chicken, wholesome rice, and sweet peas, the recipe provides a complete meal that satisfies hunger and delivers essential nutrients in every bite.
• Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor: By using simple techniques like sautéing and baking, this recipe creates a restaurant-quality meal without complicated cooking skills or extensive preparation time.

Ingredients to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy protein that forms the heart of this comforting one-pan meal.

• Garlic, Onion: Provide a rich, deep flavor base that adds depth to the dish.
• Salt, Pepper, Paprika: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall taste profile of the chicken and rice.

• Olive Oil: Helps to sauté the aromatics and prevent sticking.
• Chicken Broth: Creates a flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the rice with savory taste.
• Heavy Cream: Adds a luxurious, creamy texture to the sauce.
• Peas: Adds a touch of sweetness and bright color to the dish.
• Uncooked Rice: Absorbs the liquid and becomes tender during baking, creating a complete one-pan meal.

How to Cook Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Space

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C) and give a light coating of grease to your baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sizzle Aromatic Base

Drizzle olive oil into a large skillet over medium heat.

Toss in minced garlic and diced onions, letting them dance and become translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Carefully place chicken breasts into the skillet, letting them sear and develop a golden-brown crust.

Cook each side for 5-7 minutes until they’re beautifully caramelized.

Step 4: Create Luxurious Sauce

Pour chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all the delicious browned bits from the bottom.

• Heavy cream
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

• Uncooked rice
• Frozen peas

Ensure everything is well mixed and coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Cover snugly with aluminum foil and slide into the preheated oven.

Step 7: Final Transformation

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the rice becomes tender and has absorbed all the luscious liquid.

Remove foil and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips to Keep Chicken and Rice Rich and Tender

• Pat chicken breasts dry before cooking to ensure a perfect golden-brown exterior and juicy interior.
• Deglaze the skillet with white wine or additional chicken broth to capture all the delicious browned bits from cooking.
• Use long-grain white rice for the best texture and absorption of creamy sauce.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or thyme before serving to add a bright, fresh flavor and beautiful color to the dish.

Variations to Customize Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a lighter, lactose-free version. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added plant-based goodness.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap rice with cauliflower rice or riced broccoli. Reduce cooking time to 20 minutes and add extra spices like thyme or rosemary for enhanced flavor.
• Spicy Southwest Variation: Add diced green chilies, cumin, and chili powder. Replace peas with corn kernels and top with fresh cilantro before serving. Include a sprinkle of pepper jack cheese for extra kick.

Rich Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

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4.8 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Southern comfort meets culinary magic in this soulful Smothered Chicken and Rice, where tender chicken bathes in a creamy, herb-infused gravy. Hearty layers of flavor will satisfy your soul with each comforting, home-style bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Aromatics and Vegetables:

• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas (or fresh)

Liquid and Seasoning:

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (473 milliliters)
• 1 cup heavy cream (237 milliliters)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 milliliters)
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Paprika to taste

Grains:

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (200 grams)

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray.
2. Place a skillet over medium heat, drizzle with olive oil, and gently sauté minced garlic and diced onions until they become translucent and fragrant.
3. Introduce chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking each side until a rich golden-brown color develops, approximately 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Deglaze the pan by pouring chicken broth and using a spatula to scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
5. Incorporate heavy cream, seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika to create a luxurious sauce.
6. Fold uncooked rice and green peas into the skillet, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
7. Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
8. Shield the dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until rice reaches perfect tenderness and liquid is completely absorbed.
10. Remove from oven and allow to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• Chicken Selection: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts of similar size for even cooking and consistent texture.
• Rice Absorption: Opt for long-grain white rice to ensure perfect absorption of creamy sauce and prevent mushiness.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for lactose-intolerant or vegan diners.
• Flavor Enhancement: Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving to add brightness and aromatic depth to the dish.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 550 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 40 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg