Are you ready to whip up a delicious dinner in just 30 minutes? I know how hectic weeknights can be, and that’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Quick and Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly simple to make, making it one of my go-to 30-minute meals. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those of us who love easy pasta recipes but want to switch things up a bit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich, creamy sauce that elevates simple chicken and rice.
- Uses common ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- Great for the whole family—kids love it!
- Can be made in one skillet for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
To make this creamy delight, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (about 3 medium) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (for color like in the image)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half & half for lighter option)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream (adds tang and richness)
- ½ tsp mustard (optional but enhances depth)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds umami and thickness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
- 3 cups cooked white rice (long grain or jasmine)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering dish:
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same pan, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 1 minute to deglaze. Add heavy cream, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Smother the Chicken: Return cooked chicken to the pan. Simmer everything together for another 3–4 minutes so the chicken is smothered and coated in the sauce.
- Serve: Plate a scoop of warm cooked rice. Spoon creamy chicken and sauce generously on top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and a fresh touch—like the photo!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some tips to ensure your creamy smothered chicken turns out perfectly:
- For a lighter version, substitute half & half for heavy cream.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed!
How to Serve
This dish is best served warm, and I love pairing it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with some crusty bread to soak up that delicious creamy sauce. It’s a fantastic option for healthy quick family meals that everyone will enjoy!
Make Ahead and Storage
If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can cook the chicken and make the sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to serve. This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
So, what are you waiting for? This creamy smothered chicken and rice is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate! If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out my Decadent Chocolate Cake or the Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake for a sweet treat after your meal. Happy cooking!
Quick and Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice for Busy Weeknights
Ingredients
Method
- Cook chicken in a skillet with oil, seasonings until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same pan, sauté garlic, then add chicken broth and simmer briefly.
- Add heavy cream, sour cream, Parmesan, and seasonings; simmer until slightly thickened.
- Return chicken to the pan, simmer for a few minutes to coat in sauce.
- Serve over warm rice, garnish with parsley.