Description
This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, cheesy cream sauce with perfectly seasoned rice. A deliciously satisfying dinner perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, letting the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken. Add thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add Rice: Stir in uncooked rice, ensuring it’s evenly coated in the sauce. Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, resting on top of the rice.
- Simmer: Cover and cook on low for 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If needed, add more broth and continue simmering.
- Finish & Serve: Sprinkle mozzarella (if using) over the chicken and rice, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Rice Variations: Brown rice can be used but requires a longer cooking time and additional liquid.
- Protein Swaps: Try using boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce the cheese.
- Add Veggies: Toss in peas, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Topping Ideas: Garnish with crispy bacon bits, hot sauce, or a drizzle of ranch for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 590 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg