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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

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A rich and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken smothered in a creamy garlic-onion sauce, served over fluffy rice.

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for the creamy sauce)
  • ½ small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth (for the creamy sauce)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt (for the creamy sauce)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for the creamy sauce)
  • 1 cup white or brown rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water (for the rice)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (for the rice)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the rice: In a saucepan, bring 2 cups chicken broth or water and ½ teaspoon salt to a boil. Stir in rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer: 15–18 minutes for white rice or about 35 minutes for brown rice. Fluff and set aside.
  2. Season & sear the chicken: Pat the chicken dry, then season both sides with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden; remove and set aside.
  3. Make the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Sauté onion for about 2 minutes, then add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Simmer & smother: Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it. Cover and simmer on low for 5–7 minutes, until chicken reaches 165 °F (75 °C).
  5. Serve: Spoon rice onto plates, top with smothered chicken and extra sauce. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan.

Notes

  • Red pepper flakes or hot sauce can be added for a spicy kick.
  • Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra veggies.
  • Swap Parmesan for mozzarella, Gouda, or shredded cheddar for a cheesy twist.
  • Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
  • Use coconut milk and dairy-free cheese to make the dish dairy-free.

Nutrition

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