Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice: A Comforting Classic

๎ˆƒIndulge in the rich and hearty flavors of Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice, a timeless dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒThis recipe features tender chicken thighs enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, served atop a bed of fluffy rice.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒIt’s the perfect choice for family dinners or when you’re craving comfort food with minimal effort.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†


Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • Chicken Thighs: ๎ˆƒ4 pieces, bone-in and skin-on๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
  • Seasonings:
    • ๎ˆƒSalt and pepper, to taste๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
    • ๎ˆƒ1 teaspoon paprika๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
    • ๎ˆƒ1 teaspoon onion powder๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
    • ๎ˆƒ1 teaspoon garlic powder๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
  • Olive Oil: ๎ˆƒ2 tablespoons๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

For the Creamy Sauce

  • Onion: ๎ˆƒ1 medium, diced๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
  • Garlic: ๎ˆƒ2 cloves, minced๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
  • Heavy Cream: ๎ˆƒ1 cup (240ml)๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup: ๎ˆƒ1 cup (240ml)๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

For the Rice

  • Long-Grain White Rice: ๎ˆƒ1 cup (200g)๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
  • Chicken Broth: ๎ˆƒ2 cups (480ml)๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

Garnish

  • Fresh Parsley: ๎ˆƒChopped, for serving๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

  • Seasoning: ๎ˆƒPat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒSeason both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
  • Searing: ๎ˆƒIn a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒAdd the seasoned chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒRemove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

  • Sautรฉing Aromatics: ๎ˆƒIn the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒSautรฉ over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
  • Creating the Sauce: ๎ˆƒStir in the cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream, mixing well to combine.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒBring the mixture to a gentle simmer.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

3. Combine and Cook

  • Simmering: ๎ˆƒReturn the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒReduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

4. Prepare the Rice

  • Cooking Rice: ๎ˆƒWhile the chicken simmers, bring the chicken broth to a boil in a separate pot.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒAdd the rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒCook for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the broth.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

5. Serve

  • Plating: ๎ˆƒSpoon a serving of rice onto each plate.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒTop with a chicken thigh and generous ladle of the creamy sauce.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
  • Garnish: ๎ˆƒSprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

Tips for Success

  • Chicken Selection: ๎ˆƒBone-in, skin-on thighs provide the best flavor and moisture.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒHowever, boneless, skinless thighs or chicken breasts can be used; adjust cooking times accordingly to prevent dryness.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
  • Creaminess Adjustments: ๎ˆƒFor a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒBe mindful of potential flavor changes.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
  • Rice Variations: ๎ˆƒFeel free to use jasmine or basmati rice for added aroma, or opt for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

Serving Suggestions

๎ˆƒThis dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒA crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the rich flavors of the creamy chicken and rice.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†


Storage and Reheating

  • Storage: ๎ˆƒAllow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒRefrigerate for up to 3 days.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†
  • Reheating: ๎ˆƒGently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain the sauce’s consistency.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒAlternatively, microwave individual portions until heated through.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of mushroom soup?

๎ˆƒYes, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can be used as substitutes, though they will alter the flavor profile slightly.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

๎ˆƒAbsolutely! Prepare the dish as directed, then cool and refrigerate.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒReheat gently before serving, adding a bit of broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

๎ˆƒCertainly! Adding sautรฉed mushrooms, spinach, or peas can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the meal.๎ˆ„๎ˆ†


Conclusion

๎ˆƒCreamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a delightful, comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying to enjoy.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒIts rich sauce and tender chicken make it a family favorite, perfect for any night of the week.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒTry this recipe today, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family.๎ˆ„ ๎ˆƒSubscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!๎ˆ„๎ˆ†


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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice: A Comforting Classic

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet and Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Comfort Food

Description

This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a rich, flavorful cream sauce served over fluffy rice. It’s the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions.


Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • Chicken Thighs: 4 pieces (bone-in, skin-on) ๐Ÿ”
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste ๐Ÿง‚
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ
  • Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon ๐Ÿง…
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon ๐Ÿง„
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons ๐ŸŒฟ

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • Onion: 1 medium, diced ๐Ÿง…
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced ๐Ÿง„
  • Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml) ๐Ÿฅ›
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 cup (240ml) ๐Ÿฅฃ

For the Rice:

  • Long-Grain White Rice: 1 cup (200g) ๐Ÿš
  • Chicken Broth: 2 cups (480ml) ๐Ÿ—

Garnish:

  • Fresh Parsley: Chopped ๐ŸŒฟ

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

  • Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down, for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

  • In the same skillet, sautรฉ the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
  • Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream, mixing well. Bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Combine and Cook

  • Nestle the seared chicken thighs into the creamy sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

4. Prepare the Rice

  • In a separate pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 18-20 minutes until tender and the liquid is absorbed.

5. Serve

  • Plate a portion of rice on each plate. Top with a chicken thigh and spoon over the creamy sauce.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Notes

  • Substitutions: For a lighter sauce, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
  • Rice Variations: Jasmine or basmati rice can be used for extra aroma.
  • Vegetable Additions: Incorporate mushrooms, spinach, or peas for added nutrition.

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