Best Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Discover how to make the most creamy smothered chicken and rice that will transform your weeknight dinner routine. This comforting, restaurant-quality creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe combines tender chicken breasts, a velvety cream sauce, and fluffy rice for a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe is guaranteed to impress with minimal effort!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

• This creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe is ready in just 45 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights!
• One-pan cooking means less cleanup and more family time
• The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with both the chicken and rice
• Customizable with your favorite vegetables or herbs
• Budget-friendly using pantry staples and affordable ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep – tastes even better the next day!
• Kid-approved comfort food that adults will crave too
• Makes the best homemade creamy smothered chicken you’ve ever tasted

Ingredients for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (use cornstarch for a gluten-free option)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier alternative)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

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How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously on both sides with the spice mixture.
3. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown (they don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage).
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce for Your Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

1. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt.
2. Add diced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms (if using) and cook for another 3-4 minutes until mushrooms are tender and lightly browned.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.
5. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Add the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
8. Season the creamy sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Return the browned chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Occasionally spoon the sauce over the chicken while it cooks.
4. Add chopped fresh parsley during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

1. While the chicken is simmering, prepare the rice.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
3. Add butter and salt, then stir in the rice.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes (or according to package instructions) until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

• Chicken thickness matters: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness or slice thicker breasts horizontally.
• Don’t rush the sauce: Allow the flour to cook with the vegetables for a full minute to eliminate any raw flour taste in your creamy smothered chicken.
• Temperature control: Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil to prevent curdling.
• Cheese selection: Freshly grated Parmesan works best as pre-packaged grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a subtle heat kick.
• Vegetable additions: Green peas, spinach, or roasted red peppers make excellent additions to this creamy chicken recipe.
• Taste as you go: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving – a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon can make all the difference!

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

The best way to serve creamy smothered chicken and rice is by placing a scoop of fluffy rice on each plate, topping it with a chicken breast, and generously spooning the creamy sauce over everything. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Try these perfect pairings with your creamy smothered chicken and rice:

• Steamed asparagus or green beans for a fresh, crisp contrast
• A simple side salad with vinaigrette dressing
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the extra sauce
• Roasted vegetables like brussels sprouts or carrots
• A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for an elegant dinner

Nutritional Information for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

(Per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 680 kcal
• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 185mg
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

For a lighter version of this creamy smothered chicken recipe, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use brown rice instead of white rice.

Storage & Leftovers for Your Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

This creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe keeps beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep and leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: The chicken and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. Rice is best frozen separately.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwave rice with a sprinkle of water to restore moisture.

FAQs for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

Can I make creamy smothered chicken and rice ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop. Cook fresh rice when you’re ready to serve for best results, or reheat refrigerated rice with a splash of water.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in creamy smothered chicken?

You can substitute half-and-half, whole milk mixed with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, or for a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk works wonderfully in this creamy smothered chicken recipe.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs make an excellent substitute and often result in even juicier creamy smothered chicken. Adjust cooking time to ensure thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How do I fix a sauce that’s too thin or too thick?

If your sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes or add a slurry of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water. If it’s too thick, gradually whisk in additional chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.

Related Recipes for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

If you love this creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe, try these other delicious comfort food recipes:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Cream Sauce
• One-Pot Mushroom and Herb Rice Pilaf
• Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken with Vegetables
• Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
• Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

Conclusion & Call to Action

Now you know how to make the best creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe at home! This comforting, flavorful meal is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. The combination of tender chicken, velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked rice creates a restaurant-quality dish that’s actually simple to prepare in your own kitchen.

Have you tried making this creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below! Did you add any special ingredients or make substitutions? Share your tips and tricks with our cooking community.

Don’t forget to save this creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe and share it with friends and family who appreciate delicious, homemade comfort food. Tag us in your social media photos with #creamychickenandrice so we can see your delicious creations!

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