Name: Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long grain white rice; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Hey y'all! If you're craving a dish that's cozy, hearty, and absolutely full of flavor, this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is about to become your new favorite. Whether you're feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or hosting friends for Sunday supper, this recipe delivers on creamy comfort and Southern charm every time. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

One-pan wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet for easy cleanup.
Rich, creamy sauce envelops tender chicken and fluffy rice.

Customizable with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better.
Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing for any occasion!

Ingredients for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (not instant)
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried parsley

1 cup frozen peas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions: How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Remove chicken and set aside (it will finish cooking later).

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add diced onion to the same pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Rice and Chicken Together

Add uncooked rice to the pan and stir to coat in the oil and aromatics. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, and parsley. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Return seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20-22 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Remove chicken breasts and stir in frozen peas and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add chicken back on top and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Notes for the Best Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

For even more flavor, use bone-in, skin-on thighs and remove skin before serving (Serious Eats - Cooking Chicken Thighs).
Make sure to use long-grain rice; short-grain can become mushy.

For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream (check nutritional details at Healthline).

Variations on Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Wild Rice: Swap white rice for wild rice blend and cook an extra 10-15 minutes.
Mushroom & Spinach Version: Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms and 2 cups baby spinach in with the rice.

Spicy Cajun Style: Add 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning and a diced bell pepper for a Southern kick.

Required Equipment

Large deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid
Sharp knife and cutting board

Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Storage Instructions for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Cool leftovers completely before storing in airtight containers.

Refrigerate up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk.
Freeze up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Add a side of classic buttermilk biscuits for a true Southern feast.

Pro Tips for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Let chicken rest a few minutes after cooking for maximum juiciness.

Stir rice halfway through cooking to prevent sticking on the bottom.
Upgrade your cheese by using freshly grated cheddar for creamier melting (learn more about cheese melting at The Kitchn).