Description
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and baked atop a creamy, savory rice mixture infused with garlic, onion, and herbs. This effortless dish combines creamy textures with flavorful seasonings, perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Rice and Sauce
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken and rice dish.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika, then sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Creamy Base: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and heavy cream into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Mix thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Incorporate Rice and Seasonings: Add the long-grain white rice, water, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil on the stovetop.
- Arrange Chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them on top of the rice mixture evenly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the rice is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm for a creamy and hearty meal.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is oven-safe before baking to avoid damage or accidents.
- For extra flavor, consider adding mushrooms or bell peppers when sautéing onions and garlic.
- If preferred, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter dish.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Check rice and chicken doneness carefully to avoid undercooking.
