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The Ultimate Guide to Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice: A Comfort Food Classic

The Ultimate Guide to Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice: A Comfort Food Classic
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This delicious and comforting dish features tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy sauce and served over fluffy rice. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s easy to prepare, hearty, and sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)

  • 1 cup uncooked rice

  • 2 cups chicken broth

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half/non-dairy alternative)

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme

  • ½ teaspoon parsley, fresh or dried (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook it according to package instructions, using chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor. Set aside.

  2. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

  3. Cook the chicken: Season chicken breasts with paprika, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Place them in the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.

  4. Make the creamy sauce: Reduce heat to low, then pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the remaining onions and garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer.

  5. Add vegetables (optional): Stir in frozen peas and cook 2–3 minutes until heated through.

  6. Combine and finish: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it in the creamy sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken and allow flavors to meld.

  7. Serve: Spoon rice onto plates, top with the creamy chicken, and garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Add mushrooms or bell peppers when sautéing onions for extra flavor and color.

  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.

  • This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-creamy-smothered-chicken-and-rice-a-comfort-food-classic/

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