Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice: A Comforting One-Pan Dinner

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy smothered chicken rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The tender chicken breasts, rich and creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice create a delightful harmony of flavors. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s simple to prepare, yet impresses with its comforting, satisfying taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting dinner after a long day, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—easily adaptable to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

4. Sprinkle the flour (or cornstarch) over the onions and garlic, stirring for about 1 minute to cook the flour slightly.

5. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce begins to thicken. Let it simmer for a few minutes.

6. Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to combine. Place the chicken breasts back in the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top.

7. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

8. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• For the Veggie Lovers: Swap out the chicken for tofu or chickpeas, and add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a hearty vegetarian alternative.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

• Flavor Twist: Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for some heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added for extra flavor.

• Use Brown Rice: Brown rice can be substituted for white rice, but be prepared for slightly longer cooking time and more liquid.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover creamy smothered chicken rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Cool it down completely, place it in an airtight container, and store for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.

• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture if needed.

FAQs

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container for storage. It will keep well for up to three months in the freezer.

What can I serve with this?

Pair it with a simple garden salad, steamed veggies, or some crusty bread for a well-rounded meal. It’s also delicious on its own!

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware it will require additional cooking time and more liquid. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or any non-dairy cream alternative to make this dish dairy-free.

How can I add more flavor?

For more depth, consider adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. Using a flavored chicken broth also boosts the flavor profile.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver! Shred it and add it into the sauce towards the end of cooking. Just make sure to heat it through.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! Boneless skinless thighs would work great in this recipe as well. They’ll add a bit more flavor and tenderness.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. Prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate, and reheat for a quick dinner later in the week.

How do I know when the rice is fully cooked?

Once the liquid is absorbed, and the rice is tender when tasted, it’s done. If it’s still a bit firm, let it cook for a few more minutes with the lid on.

What if my sauce is too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a bit more chicken broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Creamy smothered chicken rice is the ultimate comfort food—simple, delicious, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table feel cozy and satisfied. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for busy days ahead, this one-pan recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Happy cooking, and enjoy the creamy goodness!

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Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice: A Comforting One-Pan Dinner

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A cozy and comforting one-pan dinner made with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice. This dish is easy to prepare and ideal for family dinners or meal prepping.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)

1 small onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the flour (or cornstarch) over the onions and garlic, stirring for about 1 minute to cook the flour slightly.
5. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce begins to thicken. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
6. Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to combine. Place the chicken breasts back in the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
7. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
8. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas and add seasonal vegetables.
• Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for a gluten-free version of this dish.
• Add paprika, cayenne pepper, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost.
• Brown rice can be substituted for white rice, but may require more cooking time and liquid.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add more chicken broth or cream to adjust the consistency.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg