Introduction
Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the comforting aroma of Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice wafting through your kitchen. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also brings together tender chicken, creamy goodness, and perfectly cooked rice in one delicious pan. It’s a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add them to the skillet, browning on both sides.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir in the rice to the skillet, mixing it with the onions and garlic for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and cream of mushroom soup, stirring until combined.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices for an hour before cooking.
- Feel free to substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a homemade version.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve perfectly cooked chicken and rice in one pan, browning the chicken first helps to lock in juices and enhance the overall flavor. Stirring the rice with the aromatics ensures it absorbs all the delightful flavors from the sautéed onion and garlic.
FAQ
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but be aware that the cooking time will increase.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it in the oven.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative if desired.
Conclusion
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm embrace after a busy day. It’s easy to prepare, comforting to eat, and delightful in taste. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this one-pan wonder that promises satisfaction in every bite!