Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Easy Dinner Dish

by
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups chicken broth The heart of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful main ingredients. Chicken thighs bring rich taste and tenderness. They cook well, soaking up the sauce and flavors. Long-grain white rice serves as the perfect base. It absorbs the chicken broth, creating a creamy texture. Chicken broth is key for depth. It enriches the rice and chicken, making every bite flavorful. - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste Now, let’s talk about flavor enhancers. Onion and garlic add a savory punch. They create a strong base when sautéed. Heavy cream brings a velvety richness. It turns the dish creamy and indulgent. Dried thyme and paprika add warmth and depth. They balance the richness of the cream. Don't forget the salt and pepper. These simple seasonings tie everything together, making the dish sing. - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Additional seasonings For garnishes, fresh parsley brightens the dish. It adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also play with additional seasonings. Consider a sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes for heat. These simple touches can elevate your plate. They make your creamy smothered chicken and rice even more inviting. For the full recipe, check out the additional details! 1. Preparing the chicken: Start by taking your chicken thighs. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. This mix adds great flavor. 2. Dicing onion and mincing garlic: Next, grab a medium onion. Dice it into small pieces. Then, take three cloves of garlic. Mince them finely. These will give your dish a wonderful aroma. 1. Browning the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs. Let them cook for about five minutes on each side. They should turn a lovely golden brown. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside. 2. Sautéing the onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté it for about three to four minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute. Your kitchen will smell amazing! 1. Simmering rice with chicken broth: Stir in the long-grain white rice. Mix it well with the onion and garlic. Then, pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Nestle the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet. Cover it with a lid, reduce the heat, and let it cook for twenty minutes. 2. Adding cream and peas: After the rice has absorbed most of the liquid, stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Let everything simmer for another five minutes. Stir occasionally until heated through. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This creamy smothered chicken and rice dish is sure to impress! For the full recipe, check out the complete details. For great flavor, start with seasoning. Use salt and pepper on the chicken. Paprika and thyme add a nice touch too. Don’t be shy with the spices; they make the dish pop. When browning chicken, heat your skillet first. Add olive oil and let it shimmer. This helps the chicken get a nice golden crust. Sear each side for five minutes. This step adds flavor and texture to your meal. To plate the dish, use deep bowls. This keeps the rice and sauce contained. Place the chicken on top of the rice. Drizzle extra cream sauce over the chicken. It makes the dish look inviting. Garnish with fresh parsley for color. A sprinkle adds a fresh taste and a pop of green. You can also add lemon zest for a bright touch. It enhances the overall look and flavor. If your rice turns mushy, check your liquid ratio. Use the right amount of chicken broth. If you added too much, it can make the rice soggy. Cook with the lid on to trap steam but check often. To prevent the cream from curdling, add it slowly. Stir the cream into the dish gently. Keep the heat low after adding cream. High heat can make it separate and ruin the dish. {{image_2}} You can make this dish even better with swaps. Try using jasmine rice or basmati rice instead of plain white rice. These rice types add unique flavors. If you want to switch proteins, use chicken breasts or even turkey. For a plant-based option, chickpeas or tofu work well. Adding vegetables can enhance the dish. Consider bell peppers, carrots, or spinach. These veggies add color and nutrition. You can also spice things up! Try adding cumin, curry powder, or even some chili flakes for heat. These spices bring warmth and depth to the dish. Explore different cuisines with your creamy smothered chicken and rice. For a Cajun twist, add andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning. This adds a kick of flavor. For an Asian-inspired version, mix soy sauce and ginger into the cream. Top with green onions for a fresh touch. These twists keep the dish exciting and flavorful. To keep your creamy smothered chicken and rice fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge right after it cools. This helps keep flavors intact. You can enjoy it for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the dish. Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Be sure to label it with the date. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you reheat, aim to keep the texture creamy. The stovetop is best. Just place it in a pan over low heat. Stir often and add a splash of chicken broth if it gets too thick. If you use a microwave, heat it in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots. This helps it warm evenly without losing its creamy goodness. In the fridge, creamy smothered chicken and rice stays good for about three days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or smell something off, it’s best to throw it away. Fresh food is key to great meals. Trust your senses to keep your food safe and delicious. For more details, you can refer to the Full Recipe. How to make creamy smothered chicken and rice from scratch? To make creamy smothered chicken and rice from scratch, gather your ingredients. Start by browning the chicken in olive oil. Next, sauté diced onion and minced garlic. Add long-grain rice and chicken broth, then nestle the chicken back in. Cover and cook until the rice is tender. Finally, stir in heavy cream and frozen peas before serving. Check out the full recipe for more details! Can I use brown rice instead of white? Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white. Just remember that brown rice takes longer to cook. You should add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to adjust the liquid amount too, as brown rice absorbs more. What can I serve with creamy smothered chicken and rice? Creamy smothered chicken and rice pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed veggies. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A refreshing cucumber salad adds a nice crunch too. How to reduce calories in the dish? To reduce calories, you can use skinless chicken breast instead of thighs. You can also swap heavy cream for a lighter milk or plant-based option. Reducing the amount of oil used for cooking can help too. Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free. Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream. Make sure to check the chicken broth for any dairy ingredients as well. What is the total cooking time for this recipe? The total cooking time for creamy smothered chicken and rice is about 35 minutes. This includes 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time. How long to cook chicken for tender results? Cook the chicken thighs for about 10 minutes in total. Brown them for 5 minutes on each side. The low simmer with the rice will ensure the chicken stays tender. This blog post covered a delicious creamy chicken and rice dish. We explored main ingredients like chicken thighs, rice, and broth. Flavor enhancers include onion, garlic, and spices. I shared cooking tips for perfect browning and seasoning, along with presentation ideas. Variations let you swap ingredients or try new flavors. Lastly, storing tips ensure your leftovers stay fresh. With this guide, you can create a dish that's tasty and satisfying. Happy cooking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for an easy dinner that’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor? You’ve found it! This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice dish is your new go-to meal for busy nights. With just a few main ingredients and some tasty enhancements, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide, tips, and fun variations to make this meal your own!

Jump to Recipe

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

– 1 cup long-grain white rice

– 2 cups chicken broth

The heart of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful main ingredients. Chicken thighs bring rich taste and tenderness. They cook well, soaking up the sauce and flavors. Long-grain white rice serves as the perfect base. It absorbs the chicken broth, creating a creamy texture. Chicken broth is key for depth. It enriches the rice and chicken, making every bite flavorful.

Flavor Enhancers

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s talk about flavor enhancers. Onion and garlic add a savory punch. They create a strong base when sautéed. Heavy cream brings a velvety richness. It turns the dish creamy and indulgent. Dried thyme and paprika add warmth and depth. They balance the richness of the cream. Don’t forget the salt and pepper. These simple seasonings tie everything together, making the dish sing.

Optional Garnishes

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

– Additional seasonings

For garnishes, fresh parsley brightens the dish. It adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also play with additional seasonings. Consider a sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes for heat. These simple touches can elevate your plate. They make your creamy smothered chicken and rice even more inviting.

For the full recipe, check out the additional details!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by taking your chicken thighs. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. This mix adds great flavor.

2. Dicing onion and mincing garlic: Next, grab a medium onion. Dice it into small pieces. Then, take three cloves of garlic. Mince them finely. These will give your dish a wonderful aroma.

Cooking the Dish

1. Browning the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs. Let them cook for about five minutes on each side. They should turn a lovely golden brown. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sautéing the onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté it for about three to four minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Final Cooking Process

1. Simmering rice with chicken broth: Stir in the long-grain white rice. Mix it well with the onion and garlic. Then, pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Nestle the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet. Cover it with a lid, reduce the heat, and let it cook for twenty minutes.

2. Adding cream and peas: After the rice has absorbed most of the liquid, stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Let everything simmer for another five minutes. Stir occasionally until heated through. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

This creamy smothered chicken and rice dish is sure to impress! For the full recipe, check out the complete details.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Recipe

For great flavor, start with seasoning. Use salt and pepper on the chicken. Paprika and thyme add a nice touch too. Don’t be shy with the spices; they make the dish pop.

When browning chicken, heat your skillet first. Add olive oil and let it shimmer. This helps the chicken get a nice golden crust. Sear each side for five minutes. This step adds flavor and texture to your meal.

Presentation Ideas

To plate the dish, use deep bowls. This keeps the rice and sauce contained. Place the chicken on top of the rice. Drizzle extra cream sauce over the chicken. It makes the dish look inviting.

Garnish with fresh parsley for color. A sprinkle adds a fresh taste and a pop of green. You can also add lemon zest for a bright touch. It enhances the overall look and flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice turns mushy, check your liquid ratio. Use the right amount of chicken broth. If you added too much, it can make the rice soggy. Cook with the lid on to trap steam but check often.

To prevent the cream from curdling, add it slowly. Stir the cream into the dish gently. Keep the heat low after adding cream. High heat can make it separate and ruin the dish.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can make this dish even better with swaps. Try using jasmine rice or basmati rice instead of plain white rice. These rice types add unique flavors. If you want to switch proteins, use chicken breasts or even turkey. For a plant-based option, chickpeas or tofu work well.

Flavor Integrations

Adding vegetables can enhance the dish. Consider bell peppers, carrots, or spinach. These veggies add color and nutrition. You can also spice things up! Try adding cumin, curry powder, or even some chili flakes for heat. These spices bring warmth and depth to the dish.

International Twists

Explore different cuisines with your creamy smothered chicken and rice. For a Cajun twist, add andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning. This adds a kick of flavor. For an Asian-inspired version, mix soy sauce and ginger into the cream. Top with green onions for a fresh touch. These twists keep the dish exciting and flavorful.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your creamy smothered chicken and rice fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge right after it cools. This helps keep flavors intact. You can enjoy it for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the dish. Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Be sure to label it with the date. It can last for up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Guidelines

When you reheat, aim to keep the texture creamy. The stovetop is best. Just place it in a pan over low heat. Stir often and add a splash of chicken broth if it gets too thick. If you use a microwave, heat it in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots. This helps it warm evenly without losing its creamy goodness.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, creamy smothered chicken and rice stays good for about three days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or smell something off, it’s best to throw it away. Fresh food is key to great meals. Trust your senses to keep your food safe and delicious. For more details, you can refer to the Full Recipe.

FAQs

Common User Questions

How to make creamy smothered chicken and rice from scratch?

To make creamy smothered chicken and rice from scratch, gather your ingredients. Start by browning the chicken in olive oil. Next, sauté diced onion and minced garlic. Add long-grain rice and chicken broth, then nestle the chicken back in. Cover and cook until the rice is tender. Finally, stir in heavy cream and frozen peas before serving. Check out the full recipe for more details!

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white. Just remember that brown rice takes longer to cook. You should add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to adjust the liquid amount too, as brown rice absorbs more.

What can I serve with creamy smothered chicken and rice?

Creamy smothered chicken and rice pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed veggies. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A refreshing cucumber salad adds a nice crunch too.

Recipe Adjustments

How to reduce calories in the dish?

To reduce calories, you can use skinless chicken breast instead of thighs. You can also swap heavy cream for a lighter milk or plant-based option. Reducing the amount of oil used for cooking can help too.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free. Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream. Make sure to check the chicken broth for any dairy ingredients as well.

Cooking Times

What is the total cooking time for this recipe?

The total cooking time for creamy smothered chicken and rice is about 35 minutes. This includes 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time.

How long to cook chicken for tender results?

Cook the chicken thighs for about 10 minutes in total. Brown them for 5 minutes on each side. The low simmer with the rice will ensure the chicken stays tender.

This blog post covered a delicious creamy chicken and rice dish. We explored main ingredients like chicken thighs, rice, and broth. Flavor enhancers include onion, garlic, and spices. I shared cooking tips for perfect browning and seasoning, along with presentation ideas. Variations let you swap ingredients or try new flavors. Lastly, storing tips ensure your leftovers stay fresh. With this guide, you can create a dish that’s tasty and satisfying. Happy cooking!

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups chicken broth The heart of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful main ingredients. Chicken thighs bring rich taste and tenderness. They cook well, soaking up the sauce and flavors. Long-grain white rice serves as the perfect base. It absorbs the chicken broth, creating a creamy texture. Chicken broth is key for depth. It enriches the rice and chicken, making every bite flavorful. - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste Now, let’s talk about flavor enhancers. Onion and garlic add a savory punch. They create a strong base when sautéed. Heavy cream brings a velvety richness. It turns the dish creamy and indulgent. Dried thyme and paprika add warmth and depth. They balance the richness of the cream. Don't forget the salt and pepper. These simple seasonings tie everything together, making the dish sing. - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Additional seasonings For garnishes, fresh parsley brightens the dish. It adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also play with additional seasonings. Consider a sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes for heat. These simple touches can elevate your plate. They make your creamy smothered chicken and rice even more inviting. For the full recipe, check out the additional details! 1. Preparing the chicken: Start by taking your chicken thighs. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. This mix adds great flavor. 2. Dicing onion and mincing garlic: Next, grab a medium onion. Dice it into small pieces. Then, take three cloves of garlic. Mince them finely. These will give your dish a wonderful aroma. 1. Browning the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs. Let them cook for about five minutes on each side. They should turn a lovely golden brown. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside. 2. Sautéing the onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté it for about three to four minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute. Your kitchen will smell amazing! 1. Simmering rice with chicken broth: Stir in the long-grain white rice. Mix it well with the onion and garlic. Then, pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Nestle the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet. Cover it with a lid, reduce the heat, and let it cook for twenty minutes. 2. Adding cream and peas: After the rice has absorbed most of the liquid, stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Let everything simmer for another five minutes. Stir occasionally until heated through. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This creamy smothered chicken and rice dish is sure to impress! For the full recipe, check out the complete details. For great flavor, start with seasoning. Use salt and pepper on the chicken. Paprika and thyme add a nice touch too. Don’t be shy with the spices; they make the dish pop. When browning chicken, heat your skillet first. Add olive oil and let it shimmer. This helps the chicken get a nice golden crust. Sear each side for five minutes. This step adds flavor and texture to your meal. To plate the dish, use deep bowls. This keeps the rice and sauce contained. Place the chicken on top of the rice. Drizzle extra cream sauce over the chicken. It makes the dish look inviting. Garnish with fresh parsley for color. A sprinkle adds a fresh taste and a pop of green. You can also add lemon zest for a bright touch. It enhances the overall look and flavor. If your rice turns mushy, check your liquid ratio. Use the right amount of chicken broth. If you added too much, it can make the rice soggy. Cook with the lid on to trap steam but check often. To prevent the cream from curdling, add it slowly. Stir the cream into the dish gently. Keep the heat low after adding cream. High heat can make it separate and ruin the dish. {{image_2}} You can make this dish even better with swaps. Try using jasmine rice or basmati rice instead of plain white rice. These rice types add unique flavors. If you want to switch proteins, use chicken breasts or even turkey. For a plant-based option, chickpeas or tofu work well. Adding vegetables can enhance the dish. Consider bell peppers, carrots, or spinach. These veggies add color and nutrition. You can also spice things up! Try adding cumin, curry powder, or even some chili flakes for heat. These spices bring warmth and depth to the dish. Explore different cuisines with your creamy smothered chicken and rice. For a Cajun twist, add andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning. This adds a kick of flavor. For an Asian-inspired version, mix soy sauce and ginger into the cream. Top with green onions for a fresh touch. These twists keep the dish exciting and flavorful. To keep your creamy smothered chicken and rice fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge right after it cools. This helps keep flavors intact. You can enjoy it for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the dish. Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Be sure to label it with the date. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you reheat, aim to keep the texture creamy. The stovetop is best. Just place it in a pan over low heat. Stir often and add a splash of chicken broth if it gets too thick. If you use a microwave, heat it in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots. This helps it warm evenly without losing its creamy goodness. In the fridge, creamy smothered chicken and rice stays good for about three days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or smell something off, it’s best to throw it away. Fresh food is key to great meals. Trust your senses to keep your food safe and delicious. For more details, you can refer to the Full Recipe. How to make creamy smothered chicken and rice from scratch? To make creamy smothered chicken and rice from scratch, gather your ingredients. Start by browning the chicken in olive oil. Next, sauté diced onion and minced garlic. Add long-grain rice and chicken broth, then nestle the chicken back in. Cover and cook until the rice is tender. Finally, stir in heavy cream and frozen peas before serving. Check out the full recipe for more details! Can I use brown rice instead of white? Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white. Just remember that brown rice takes longer to cook. You should add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to adjust the liquid amount too, as brown rice absorbs more. What can I serve with creamy smothered chicken and rice? Creamy smothered chicken and rice pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed veggies. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A refreshing cucumber salad adds a nice crunch too. How to reduce calories in the dish? To reduce calories, you can use skinless chicken breast instead of thighs. You can also swap heavy cream for a lighter milk or plant-based option. Reducing the amount of oil used for cooking can help too. Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free. Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream. Make sure to check the chicken broth for any dairy ingredients as well. What is the total cooking time for this recipe? The total cooking time for creamy smothered chicken and rice is about 35 minutes. This includes 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time. How long to cook chicken for tender results? Cook the chicken thighs for about 10 minutes in total. Brown them for 5 minutes on each side. The low simmer with the rice will ensure the chicken stays tender. This blog post covered a delicious creamy chicken and rice dish. We explored main ingredients like chicken thighs, rice, and broth. Flavor enhancers include onion, garlic, and spices. I shared cooking tips for perfect browning and seasoning, along with presentation ideas. Variations let you swap ingredients or try new flavors. Lastly, storing tips ensure your leftovers stay fresh. With this guide, you can create a dish that's tasty and satisfying. Happy cooking!

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Indulge in this creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe that's perfect for a cozy dinner! With tender chicken thighs, flavorful rice, and a rich cream sauce, this dish is a comforting delight for all ages. In just 35 minutes, you can prepare a meal that will impress your family and friends. Ready to create some culinary magic? Click through now for the full recipe and elevate your dinner table!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup frozen peas

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon paprika

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.

    Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and brown on both sides for about 5 minutes each, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

      In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

        Stir in the rice, ensuring it gets coated with the oil and mixed well with the onion and garlic.

          Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice.

            Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

              Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through.

                Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

                  Serve the creamy smothered chicken on a bed of rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

                    Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 35 min | Servings: 4

                      - Presentation Tips: Plate the dish in deep bowls, drizzling extra cream sauce over the chicken, and sprinkle parsley for a fresh touch.

                        WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?