Creamy Smothered Chicken with Rice Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. You can also use thighs for extra flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a meatless option, try using firm tofu or seitan.

Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk thickened with a bit of cornstarch. Coconut milk is another tasty alternative if you like a hint of coconut flavor!

Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth to the sauce. If you’re out of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano, nutritional yeast for a vegan option, or just use more vegetables for flavor.

Rice: I use jasmine rice for its fragrant and fluffy qualities. You can substitute with long-grain white rice, brown rice for a healthier option, or even cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb.

How Can You Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Tender?

Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but with a few simple actions, you’ll end up with juicy breasts every time. First, don’t skip seasoning! A little salt and pepper elevate the flavor even before cooking. Next, sear the chicken on medium-high heat until golden on each side, but don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked yet. It will finish cooking in the sauce.

• Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken; this helps with browning.
• Keep the heat low when simmering in the sauce—this gentle cooking retains moisture.

Lastly, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it tender.

Creamy Smothered Chicken with Rice

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• For the Sauce:
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• For Serving:
  • 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or long grain)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 25-30 minutes to cook, making a total of around 35-40 minutes to get this comforting meal on your table. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken:

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This basic seasoning enhances the flavor of the chicken, so don’t skip this step!

2. Brown the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and brown on both sides for about 4 minutes each. They should look golden and delicious but don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked yet. After browning, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

Using the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms (if using) and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the mushrooms soften and release their juices.

4. Make the Sauce:

Now sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables. Stir well for about 1 minute to combine everything and cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid any lumps from forming. Then, add the heavy cream, dried thyme, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes thick and creamy.

5. Simmer the Chicken:

Return the browned chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of that glorious sauce over the top. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.

6. Prepare the Rice:

While the chicken is simmering, prepare the rice according to package instructions if you haven’t done so already. Whether you go with jasmine or long grain, fluffy rice is a perfect base for this creamy dish.

7. Serve the Dish:

Once the chicken is cooked and your sauce is bubbling, it’s time to serve! Place a generous scoop of rice onto each plate, then top with the creamy smothered chicken. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a lovely touch!

Enjoy your comforting dish of Creamy Smothered Chicken with Rice! It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

FAQ for Creamy Smothered Chicken with Rice

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Absolutely! If using frozen chicken breasts, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way is to transfer them to the fridge the night before. If time is short, you can also thaw them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and sour cream. If you’re dairy-free, try using coconut cream or a plant-based cream. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor!

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat when you’re ready to serve, adding a little cream or broth if needed to refresh the sauce. Cook the rice just before serving for the best texture!