Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice delivers everything you love in a cozy, satisfying meal. Tender chicken rests on a bed of creamy, flavorful rice soaked in a rich sauce. This dish gives you a complete dinner in one pan, which makes it perfect for busy nights. It stays comforting without feeling heavy. Each bite blends soft rice, seasoned chicken, and a smooth, cheesy sauce.
Why This Smothered Chicken Recipe Works
This meal brings warmth and simplicity to the dinner table. The chicken cooks gently in broth and milk, which keeps it moist. The rice absorbs the sauce and becomes creamy. The blend of smoked paprika, garlic, onion powder, and thyme adds depth without overpowering the dish. Everything comes together with cheddar and Parmesan for a rich finish.
Perfect for Family Dinners
This recipe serves four and fits any weeknight. It uses pantry staples, so you can prepare it anytime. Kids love the creamy texture, and adults enjoy the savory flavor profile. You can also double the recipe when you need more servings. It reheats well, making it great for meal prep.
Flavor Boosters to Try
Fresh parsley brightens the dish at the end. A sprinkle of black pepper adds gentle heat. You can use extra cheddar for a cheesier finish. Add mushrooms or peas if you want more texture. The dish adapts easily to your taste.
Easy Serving Ideas
Serve this creamy chicken and rice with steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a crisp salad. The dish already includes protein, carbs, and sauce, so sides can stay simple. It also pairs well with roasted asparagus or buttery green beans.
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons powdered garlic
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Season chicken with paprika, salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder.
- Add chicken to the pan and sear both sides until lightly browned.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same pan and whisk in flour.
- Add broth and milk while whisking until smooth.
- Stir in rice and thyme.
- Place chicken on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 25 minutes.
- Add cheddar and Parmesan on top.
- Cover and cook for 5 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with parsley.
- Serve warm and enjoy the creamy sauce.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a richer sauce.
- Add vegetables like peas or mushrooms for extra texture.
- Stir gently before serving to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – The Ultimate Comfort Dinner
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice made with tender chicken, seasoned rice, and a rich, savory sauce for the perfect comfort dinner.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 1/2 teaspoons powdered garlic
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
Black pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon thyme
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1 cup long-grain white rice
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet.
2. Season chicken and sear both sides.
3. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. Melt butter and whisk in flour.
5. Add broth and milk and stir.
6. Mix in rice and thyme.
7. Place chicken on top of rice.
8. Cover and cook 25 minutes.
9. Add cheddar and Parmesan.
10. Cook 5 more minutes.
11. Garnish with parsley.
12. Serve warm.
Notes
Use whole milk for extra creaminess.
Add vegetables like peas or mushrooms.
Stir gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 525
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 122mg
Keywords: creamy smothered chicken and rice, chicken and rice recipe, comfort food dinner, easy chicken meal