Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Name: Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breasts; 2 cups of rice; 1 can of cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup of chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 1 cup of shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Whip up a comforting and satisfying meal in no time with this creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe. Juicy chicken breasts are enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce, perfectly paired with fluffy rice for an easy weeknight dinner that your family will love. This dish not only delivers on flavor but also makes for great leftovers, ideal for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-11T14:46:31.585Z

This dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a family favorite. The creamy sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Tips for Perfecting Your Creamy Smothered Chicken

To achieve the perfect texture of your creamy smothered chicken, make sure to sear the chicken breasts well. This not only locks in the juices but also adds a nice browned layer that enhances the overall flavor. Use a good-quality skillet to distribute heat evenly and ensure a thorough cook. Don't rush this step, as it sets the foundation for the rest of your dish.

Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the dish, balancing the creaminess of the sauce. If you're looking to spice things up, a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika can elevate the dish, giving it a lovely kick that complements the richness.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy smothered chicken and rice pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. The freshness of the vegetables complements the hearty dish, creating a balanced meal. Roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans are excellent choices that can be made in the same skillet, providing an easy cleanup.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider serving the dish with some toasted bread or garlic bread on the side. The contrast in textures will elevate your dining experience, making each bite even more enjoyable. Plus, it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce!

Storage and Leftovers

One of the best aspects of this recipe is how well it stores. If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be easily refrigerated for up to 3 days. Make sure to place the chicken and rice in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore the creaminess if needed.

This dish also freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Just ensure it cools completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired. This makes it a fantastic convenience food for your busy weeknights!

Ingredients

Prepare these ingredients for a delightful dish.

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts
2 cups of rice
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
1 cup of chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 cup of shredded cheese (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious meal.

Prepare the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent. Then stir in the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth, mixing well.

Combine Chicken and Rice

Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it with the sauce. Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, ensuring they are surrounded by the rice and sauce.

Simmer

Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking.

Serve hot for a comforting meal!

Nutritional Benefits

This creamy smothered chicken and rice dish is not only delicious but also offers nutritional benefits. Chicken breasts are a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and recovery. Paired with rice, a carbohydrate source, it provides a balanced meal that can fuel your family's energy needs throughout the day.

You can easily boost the nutritional profile by incorporating different vegetables into the dish. Adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skillet not only enhances the flavors but also increases the fiber content, making the meal more satisfying and beneficial for digestive health.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this dish by experimenting with different proteins. Swap out the chicken for turkey or even pork chops, ensuring to adjust the cooking times based on the thickness of the meat. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, use plant-based chicken substitutes.

You can also play around with the flavor profile by using different soup bases or adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms directly into the sauce. Each variation opens the door to new culinary experiences while keeping the dish comforting and familiar.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook.