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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting one-pot meal combining tender boneless skinless chicken thighs simmered in a rich, creamy sauce with perfectly cooked long-grain white rice. Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, this flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1½ to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Grains

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice

Liquids

  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream

Aromatics & Flavorings

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and garlic. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season them lightly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Having everything ready before cooking makes the process smoother.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, locking in moisture and flavor. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Cook Aromatics: Lower heat to medium-low and add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent, forming the savory base of the sauce.
  4. Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the long-grain white rice to toast slightly. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet to enhance flavor. Return the chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
  5. Simmer Until Tender: Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the chicken is tender, allowing flavors to meld and juices to lock in.
  6. Stir in Cream and Finish: Uncover the skillet and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce thicken slightly and become decadently creamy. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for juicier and more flavorful results compared to breasts.
  • Toasting the rice before adding broth adds a subtle nuttiness to the dish.
  • Simmer slowly to allow the rice to fully absorb the broth and develop creamy texture.
  • Adjust salt, pepper, and spices as you cook by tasting frequently for balanced flavor.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley at the end to maintain their bright, fresh flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: creamy chicken, smothered chicken, chicken and rice, one pot meal, comfort food, easy dinner, gluten free

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Find it online: https://marysplate.com/creamy-smothered-chicken-and-rice/