Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food—juicy chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy sauce and served over tender rice. The combination of garlic, herbs, and a luscious creamy sauce makes every bite indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for busy nights or cozy weekend dinners, this dish is an easy, one-pan meal your family will love.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs)olive oilgarlic (minced)chicken brothheavy creamcream cheeseonion powdergarlic powderpaprikaItalian seasoningfresh parsley (for garnish)long-grain white rice (uncooked)grated Parmesan cheese

directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.

Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese, mixing until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Add the rice, stirring to coat it in the creamy sauce. Season with onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the rice and sauce mixture.

Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the sauce.

Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 35 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor.

Swap in brown rice for a healthier alternative (note: you’ll need to increase cooking time).

Use boneless chicken thighs for more juicy, tender meat.

Top with extra cheese or crispy fried onions for added crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, but you can cook frozen chicken in the same way—just increase cooking time by about 5-7 minutes per side.

Can I make it with a different type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute for jasmine or basmati rice, but cooking time may vary. Adjust liquid as needed.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and milk alternatives like coconut cream or almond milk, but the texture may differ slightly.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Peas, carrots, or bell peppers work great in this dish.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger skillet or a second pan to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Conclusion

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a decadent and comforting meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice make for a satisfying dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table. This one-pan dish is as simple as it is delicious!