This creamy smothered chicken rice is the perfect comfort meal, combining tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful sauce served over fluffy rice. It’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The chicken is seared to perfection and then smothered in a creamy sauce made with heavy cream, chicken broth, and melted cheese. The sauce is bursting with flavor thanks to the addition of Dijon mustard, garlic, and spices. Served over a bed of warm, fluffy rice, this meal is both hearty and satisfying. It’s a one-pan wonder that will quickly become a favorite in your weekly dinner rotation.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Sear the Chicken: Cook the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Deglaze the Pan: Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift up any browned bits.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheese until melted. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the pan, coating it in the creamy sauce. Simmer on low for 3-4 minutes.
Serve: Spoon a serving of cooked rice onto each plate and top with the creamy chicken.
Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based chicken or tofu in place of the chicken breasts for a vegetarian version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for an added spicy flavor.
Other Rice Options: While jasmine or basmati rice works perfectly, feel free to try other rice varieties like brown rice or wild rice for a different texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen the sauce. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They may need a slightly longer cooking time, but they will add extra juiciness to the dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time, then store them separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce together and serve over freshly cooked rice.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Cheddar and mozzarella are great options, but you can also try parmesan, gouda, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a little longer to reduce, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken it up quickly.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely! While jasmine or basmati rice is recommended, you can use any rice variety you prefer, including brown rice or even quinoa.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can easily add some heat with red pepper flakes or hot sauce, depending on your preference.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

How can I make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese used.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, pre-cooked rice can be used, though it’s best to reheat it before serving to ensure the dish stays warm.

Conclusion

This creamy smothered chicken rice is the perfect comfort food dish for any occasion. The tender chicken, savory sauce, and fluffy rice come together in a satisfying and delicious way. Plus, it’s an easy one-pan meal that’s full of flavor and ready in under an hour. Whether you’re serving it to family or enjoying it as a cozy dinner for yourself, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

Chef MARTHA