This Easy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a cozy dish packed with flavor! Juicy chicken is cooked with creamy sauce and served over fluffy rice—perfect for a comforting meal.
You can whip this up on a busy night in no time. I love how the chicken gets nice and tender, and the rice soaks up all that yummy sauce. It’s like a warm hug on your plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using turkey breasts instead. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as turkey may cook faster.
Paprika: This adds a wonderful flavor and color. If you’re out, smoked paprika enhances the dish with a subtle smokiness. You could also use chili powder for a spicier kick.
Heavy cream: For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or even a mix of milk and cornstarch for thickness. Coconut milk is a great alternative for a dairy-free option, offering a unique flavor!
Red bell pepper: This is optional, but I love how it adds a pop of color and sweetness. You can swap it with any other bell pepper or even skip it altogether if preferred.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Tender?
Getting juicy, tender chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry; this helps it sear better and lock in moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing. Cook in batches if needed, so each piece can brown nicely.
- Use medium-high heat for a good sear, then reduce to medium to cook through without drying out.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices!
How to Make Easy Smothered Chicken and Rice Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced (optional, for color and flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying dinner option! In total, you’ll spend about 35 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Next, generously season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to add tons of flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the diced red bell pepper and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the pepper has softened. This step will add both flavor and color to your sauce!
4. Add Liquids:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth while stirring to deglaze the pan. This means you want to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Stir in the Dijon mustard and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them for a nice kick!
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as it should thicken slightly during this time.
6. Return Chicken to Skillet:
Next, add the chicken back into the skillet, nestling it in the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of the chicken and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm through, allowing those delicious flavors to meld together!
7. Serve:
To serve, plate up the cooked white rice and spoon the smothered chicken and sauce right over the top. Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Enjoy your creamy and flavorful smothered chicken over fluffy rice for a truly satisfying dinner!
FAQ for Easy Smothered Chicken and Rice Dinner
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice since they’re juicier and more forgiving during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if they are particularly thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream for a delicious, creamy sauce without the dairy. Just note that coconut milk will add a slight coconut flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, either microwave in short intervals or warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if the sauce is too thick.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This smothered chicken pairs perfectly with rice, but you can also serve it with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or even a side salad for a bit of freshness!
