Description
Hearty Southern-style Smothered Chicken and Rice invites comfort with its rich, golden gravy and tender chicken nestled over fluffy rice. Savory flavors blend perfectly, promising a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs)
Seasonings and Spices:
- ½ teaspoon (0.5 teaspoon) garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon (0.5 teaspoon) paprika
- 1 teaspoon (1 teaspoon) Italian seasoning
- ¾ teaspoon (0.75 teaspoon) salt
- ½ teaspoon (0.5 teaspoon) black pepper
Main Cooking Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup white or brown rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the foundational grain by bringing liquid to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Incorporate rice with a pinch of seasoning, then reduce heat and allow to gently steam until tender and fluffy.
- Meticulously dry chicken breasts and infuse with aromatic spice blend. Activate a skillet with a harmonious mixture of oil and butter, then carefully sear protein until a golden exterior develops, creating a rich caramelized surface.
- Utilize the same cooking vessel to craft a luxurious sauce. Gently soften aromatics like onion and garlic, releasing their fragrant essence. Deglaze the pan with savory broth, capturing every nuanced flavor from the skillet’s surface.
- Introduce cream and cheese to transform the liquid into a velvety emulsion. Integrate classic Italian herbs and complementary seasonings, whisking until the sauce reaches a smooth, cohesive consistency.
- Nestle seared chicken back into the sauce, allowing it to gently poach and absorb the rich, creamy liquid. Cover and let the protein finish cooking, ensuring a succulent and perfectly tender result.
- Plate the dish by creating a pillowy bed of rice, then crown with the decadent chicken and its accompanying sauce. Elevate the presentation with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and an optional dusting of aged cheese.
Notes
- Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and create a healthier version of the dish.
- Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lighter, lower-calorie alternative that still maintains creamy texture.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor and tenderness, especially if you prefer juicier meat.
- Prep ingredients beforehand to streamline cooking process and ensure smooth, stress-free meal preparation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg