“`
This creamy smothered chicken and rice dish is a cozy hug on a plate! Imagine juicy chicken swimming in a rich sauce, all served over fluffy rice. Yum!
You might want to keep a spoon handy for extra sauce—it’s that good! It’s perfect for family dinners or when you need comfort food on a chilly night. 🌟
I love how this dish warms me up and brings the whole family together. Plus, it’s super easy to make, so I can whip it up even on busy days!
“`
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs add flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless, skinless thighs or chicken breasts work too, but they may need less cooking time to stay juicy.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect for this dish. You can swap it for jasmine or basmati rice for a little extra aroma. Quinoa or cauliflower rice is a great gluten-free option if you want to mix things up!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream. Using low-fat milk will work in a pinch, but it may not be as rich. Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid curdling.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you don’t have this on hand, homemade cream of mushroom soup or a mixture of your favorite stock with a bit of flour for thickness can be used. A vegetable or chicken soup adds flavor too!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Tender?
Cooking chicken thighs until they’re tender and juicy is key, and it’s easier than you might think. First, remember not to rush the searing; let them get that lovely brown color. That adds flavor!
- Use a medium-high heat to sear them for 5-7 minutes per side. Don’t crowd the pan.
- Once you add the sauce, cover the skillet. This traps moisture and helps cook the chicken evenly.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for deliciously cooked chicken.
Deliciously Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
What You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 45 minutes to cook. You’ll be enjoying this creamy, comforting meal in no time!
Instructions:
First things first, let’s season those chicken thighs! Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder all over them. This will add wonderful flavor as they cook.
Now, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet and let them sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they get a lovely golden brown. Once they’re cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, you’ll notice all those delicious bits left behind. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté them for around 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This is where the magic begins!
Next, stir in that wonderful cream of mushroom soup along with the heavy cream. Mix everything together really well, and bring this creamy concoction to a gentle simmer. Your kitchen is going to smell heavenly!
Now it’s time to return the chicken thighs to the skillet. Nestle them right into that creamy sauce, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This will allow the chicken to become tender and soak up all that lovely flavor.
While the chicken is simmering away, let’s focus on the rice. In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add in your long-grain rice, then cover it and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed all that broth. So easy!
Once your chicken is fully cooked and tender, give that creamy sauce a little taste. Feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. It’s all about making it just right for you!
Now it’s time to plate it up! Serve those luscious, creamy smothered chicken thighs over a bed of fluffy rice. Don’t be shy with the sauce—spoon some extra on top! Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy every delicious bite!
## FAQ for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs! Just remember that chicken breasts may cook more quickly, so you’ll want to check for doneness after about 15-20 minutes of simmering in the sauce. Adjust cooking time to ensure they don’t dry out.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with an equal amount of any cream-based soup, like cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce. Just ensure the flavor complements the dish well!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even diced jalapeños when you sauté the onions and garlic. Adjust according to your desired spice level!
