Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting, one-pan dish packed with rich flavors. Tender chicken is smothered in a creamy, seasoned sauce and served over fluffy rice, making it the perfect meal for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
Comforting, creamy, and full of flavor
Perfect for a family-friendly meal
Easily customizable with different seasonings and add-ins
Great for meal prep and leftovers

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt and pepper
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Paprika
Butter or oil
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Chicken broth
Heavy cream or milk
Cream of chicken soup
Cooked rice
Cheddar cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, then remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
Add the cream of chicken soup and heavy cream, stirring until well combined.
Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and let it simmer until fully cooked.
Stir in the cooked rice and mix everything together, letting the rice absorb the flavors.
Sprinkle with cheese, if using, and let it melt.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a kick.
Mushroom Addition: Sauté mushrooms along with the onions for extra depth of flavor.
Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and low-fat cream of chicken soup.
Cheesy Twist: Mix in shredded cheese for a creamier texture.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in peas, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge, then reheat before serving.

What type of rice is best?

Long-grain white rice works best, but brown rice can be used with a longer cooking time.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be less creamy. You can also use half-and-half for a middle ground.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Use cooked rice and add it at the end to absorb flavors without overcooking.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in cooked rice before serving.

What if my sauce is too thick?

Add more broth or a splash of milk to loosen the consistency.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Simply stir in shredded rotisserie chicken at the end instead of cooking raw chicken.

Conclusion

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a cozy, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Try out different variations to make it your own, and enjoy a comforting plate of creamy goodness!