Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

If you’re craving a rich, comforting, and satisfying meal, this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe is the perfect choice! With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, this dish is a cozy dinner that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion.

This recipe is easy to make, budget-friendly, and ideal for when you need a quick yet hearty meal. Whether you’re cooking for two or preparing dinner for the family, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Rich & Creamy – A luscious sauce smothers tender chicken and fluffy rice.
✔ Quick & Easy – Perfect for weeknight dinners with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
✔ Cajun-Style Flavor – A little spice and zest make it irresistible.
✔ Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.
✔ Customizable – Works in the crockpot, oven, or stovetop.

Ingredients for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

• 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup (200g) uncooked white or brown rice
• 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup broccoli florets or other vegetables for added nutrients.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

✔ Large Skillet or Oven-Safe Pan – Perfect for cooking and assembling.
✔ Crockpot (Optional) – For slow cooking the dish.
✔ Mixing Bowl – To prepare the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. (It doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.)
4. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

1. In the same skillet, add the uncooked rice and stir it into the pan drippings for 1-2 minutes to toast lightly.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream.
2. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

• Oven Method:
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Nestle the seared chicken into the rice and sauce mixture in the skillet.
  3. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
• Crockpot Method:
  1. Transfer the rice, sauce, and chicken to a crockpot.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley or shredded cheese if desired.
2. Serve warm with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

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Tips for the Best Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

✔ Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
✔ Let It Rest – Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.
✔ Add Veggies – Stir in broccoli, spinach, or peas during the final minutes of cooking.
✔ Use Cajun Seasoning Sparingly – Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
✔ Cook Rice to Perfection – Use the correct broth-to-rice ratio and avoid over-stirring.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Make It Cheesy – Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese.
Use Brown Rice – Substitute white rice for brown rice, but adjust cooking time and liquid amounts as needed.
Swap the Protein – Use bone-in chicken, turkey, or pork chops instead.
Lighten It Up – Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk.
Vegetarian Option – Swap the chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

Freezing Instructions

• Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes! Add pre-cooked rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a balanced meal.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Absolutely! Just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild kick from the Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust the spice level by using more or less.

Can I make this recipe for two people?

Yes, this recipe is easy to scale down—simply halve the ingredients for a smaller portion.

Conclusion

This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner recipe with chicken, a healthy rice dinner, or a budget-friendly meal for two, this dish checks all the boxes.

Try this easy dinner idea today, and enjoy a cozy and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a household favorite. Don’t forget to share it with friends and loved ones—they’ll love it just as much as you do!

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