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Irresistible Creamy Smothered Chicken: 85 Min Comfort

Irresistible Creamy Smothered Chicken

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Irresistible Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich, velvety cream sauce served over fluffy rice. It’s a satisfying family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Dried Thyme
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 ½ cups Long-Grain White Rice
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (for rice)
  • 2 ½ cups Chicken Broth (for rice)
  • ½ teaspoon Salt (for rice)
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (for sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth (for sauce)
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese, softened and cubed
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika (for sauce)
  • ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional)
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste
  • Fresh Parsley or Chives, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Season chicken generously.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Rinse rice in a sieve until water runs clear. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
  4. Add chicken broth and salt to the rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  5. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened (5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Sprinkle flour over onions and garlic, stirring for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw taste.
  7. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, scraping browned bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer until thickened.
  8. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) until smooth and creamy.
  9. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
  10. Slice or shred the rested chicken. Add chicken to the sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  11. Serve the creamy smothered chicken and sauce over the fluffy rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs stay juicier, but chicken breasts can be used.
  • Using low-sodium chicken broth allows for better salt control.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides the best flavor.
  • Adjust sauce consistency by adding more broth if too thick, or simmering longer if too thin.
  • Serve with steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
  • Variations include adding frozen peas or corn to the sauce, or using different cheeses like smoked Gouda or cheddar.

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