Description
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a cozy, comforting dish with seared chicken nestled in a rich, herb-seasoned cream sauce. Served over fluffy white rice, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner or make-ahead favorite that feels indulgent yet simple.
Ingredients
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 thighs)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3 cups cooked white rice
Instructions
1. Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, reduce heat and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds.
4. Add chicken broth, scraping the pan to deglaze.
5. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning until smooth.
6. Simmer sauce for 3–4 minutes until thickened slightly.
7. Return chicken to the pan. Spoon sauce over the chicken and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
8. Serve hot over cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
For extra richness, add a splash of dry white wine while deglazing with chicken broth.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F without overcooking.
If reheating, add a bit of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Chicken Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate with rice
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: creamy chicken, comfort food, skillet chicken, easy dinner