Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
A comforting and creamy dish that pairs chicken with rice, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken Preparation
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or chicken breasts Provides the protein base
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds subtle heat
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Contributes savory depth
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Adds sweetness
- 1 teaspoon paprika Provides warmth and color
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness and moisture
- 2 tablespoons butter Enhances creaminess
- 1 small onion, diced Adds texture and sweetness
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Provides aromatic flavor
- 2 cups chicken broth Impacts moisture and body
- 1 cup heavy cream Creates a rich, creamy consistency
Seasoning and Thickening
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme Introduces herbal notes
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley Adds color and flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste Balances flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper For seasoning
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch, mixed with 1 tablespoon water Thickens sauce
Rice Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice Serves as a base
- 3 cups water or chicken broth Cooks rice and adds flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- In a large skillet, warm olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze.
Cooking
- Add the heavy cream, dried thyme, and dried parsley, stirring until combined.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is covered with the sauce.
- Mix cornstarch with water in a bowl and gradually stir into the sauce to thicken.
- In a separate pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil and add uncooked rice, covering and reducing heat to simmer.
- Cook the rice until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Once the rice is cooked and fluffy, serve it topped with the creamy chicken.
Notes
Ensure even cooking of chicken by not overcrowding the skillet. Allow the chicken to rest to maintain juiciness and adjust seasoning gradually.