Description
This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is an all-in-one comforting dish made with seared chicken breasts, tender rice, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights, yet hearty enough for Sunday dinner. Packed with flavor and easy to make in one skillet, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients
- For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the rice base:
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- For the creamy smothered sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional garnish:
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, stir together uncooked rice, chicken broth, paprika, and thyme, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for flavor.
- Nestle chicken back into the skillet on top of the rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Mix together heavy cream, sour cream, and ranch seasoning in a small bowl.
- Once rice is cooked, pour cream mixture into the skillet and stir. Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top, cover again, and let it melt for 5 minutes until creamy.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Add veggies: Stir in frozen peas or spinach towards the end of cooking for extra nutrition.
- Use chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for extra juiciness.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for heat.
- Cheese change: Mozzarella or a cheese blend can be used instead of cheddar for a milder flavor.
- Make it ahead: This dish makes great leftovers and can be prepped ahead for the week.
