Smothered Chicken And Rice Recipe

There’s something magical about a one-pan meal that comes together effortlessly but tastes like you’ve been in the kitchen all day. This smothered chicken and rice dish is my go-to comfort food, blending creamy goodness with a hint of spice – it’s like a warm hug on a plate!

I enjoy making comfort food that is full of rich flavors, and my Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe embodies that. It features tender chicken breasts that I seasoned to perfection with garlic and onion powder, and a sauce that is so creamy (thanks to heavy cream and Parmesan cheese) that I think you will adore it.

If the harmony of spices like paprika and thyme doesn’t elevate it to savory perfection, then the addition of vibrant vegetables like chopped onion and bell pepper definitely does. The delightful texture and nutritional balance make this dish a worthy dinner.

Ingredients

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: High in protein, low in fat, versatile.
• Olive Oil: Healthy fats, supports heart health, enhances flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Adds rich flavor, antioxidant properties, antimicrobial.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth, rich in antioxidants, supports digestion.
• Bell Pepper: Rich in vitamins A and C, adds sweetness and color.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess, source of calories.
• Long-Grain White Rice: Provides carbohydrates, energy source, neutral taste.
• Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth, hydrates rice, boosts flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds umami and richness, source of calcium and protein.
• Parsley: Fresh flavor, rich in vitamins A, C, and K.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Make this

1. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat.

2. Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

3. Preheat your oven. Use a large, oven-proof skillet. Heat the skillet and add olive oil. Use medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. You should hear a sizzle; if you don’t, the chicken has no business in that skillet. Brown the chicken on one side for 2-3 minutes. Flip the chicken and brown the second side for the same amount of time. Remove the chicken and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add the onion and bell pepper, which should be chopped. Sauté these for about 4-5 minutes until they turn soft. Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook this for another minute.

5. Include the rice in the skillet and stir it well so that it becomes thoroughly mixed with the vegetables and oil.

6. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Stir to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer.

7. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them into the rice mixture. Over the top, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese.

8. Put a lid or aluminum foil over the skillet and place it into the oven that has been heated in advance. Allow it to bake for 25-30 minutes. The final product should consist of rice that is tender and chicken that is fully cooked.

9. Take the skillet out of the oven. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes and then serve.

10. Before serving, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top of the chicken and rice. Enjoy your smothered chicken and rice!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Oven-proof skillet with lid or aluminum foil
3. Stove
4. Measuring spoons
5. Measuring cups
6. Cutting board
7. Knife
8. Tongs
9. Wooden spoon or spatula

FAQ

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?Certainly, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead, which will yield a juicier option. However, these may take a little longer to cook.
• Can I make this recipe in advance?The dish may be prepared in advance and kept in the fridge for no longer than three days. To serve, reheat either on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to ensure the dish isn’t too dry. Even the oven can be used, reheating it in a covered dish at a low temperature.
• Is there a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream?Coconut milk or a non-dairy cream can replace the same amount of dairy needed for a dish to maintain a creamy texture, making it suitable for those avoiding milk. This is a great opportunity to use coconut milk in a meal. Reduce the quantity only if you’re not a fan of coconut flavor. Coconut milk can contain a lot of liquid, so stir the cream in well to ensure it fits seamlessly into your dish.
• What type of rice should I use?It is recommended to use long-grain white rice, but jasmine or basmati rice can also be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Can I add vegetables to this dish?Certainly, you can include additional vegetables such as mushrooms or peas to enhance the taste and nutritional value.
• How can I make this dish spicier?If you want the dish to be spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes.

Smothered Chicken And Rice Recipe Substitutions and Variations

If you want to use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts, you can go boneless and skinless. Thigh meat is darker and richer in flavor than breast meat.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
Coconut milk can take the place of heavy cream when a dairy-free option is needed. It has a creamy consistency and a subtle hint of coconut flavor.
Try using brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier, whole-grain option.

However, for those who tend to diversify or who are on the front lines of culinary creativity, there is still a whole world of fast, one-dish meals to be made.
Cayenne pepper can be used instead of paprika if you want more spice, but be sure to adjust to taste to manage the heat level.

Pro Tips

1. Sear Your Chicken Properly: Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a good sear. A properly seared chicken will have a nice golden-brown crust, which adds flavor and texture to the dish.