Description
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a hearty and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts, a rich and savory sauce, and fluffy rice. Perfect for any occasion, this easy dish combines satisfying flavors with minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prepping.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika on both sides.
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Add chicken to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the grains.
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Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
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Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
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If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
Add shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for an extra creamy texture.
Spice it up by adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.
This dish can be stored for 3-4 days in the refrigerator and frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
