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Smothered Chicken and Rice

Comforting Smothered Chicken and Rice for Busy Weeknights

This Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe is a comforting hug on a plate, with juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 50 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Substitution: Use thighs for more flavor.
For the Rice
  • 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice Substitution: Brown rice can be used, but may require longer cooking time.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Note: Sour cream can be used for a tangier flavor.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Substitution: Vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian version.
  • 1 tablespoon Spices (Paprika, Garlic Powder, etc.) Personalize by adding cayenne for heat or herbs for freshness.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Vegetables (optional, e.g., bell peppers, mushrooms) Customize based on your preference or what's in season.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Sear the chicken in the hot skillet for about 5-7 minutes on each side until it's golden brown and cooked through.
  2. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Add rinsed long-grain white rice to the skillet with the creamy sauce, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes.
  4. Once the rice is tender, return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy rice. Cover again and let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes.
  5. Once finished, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a minute. Serve the Smothered Chicken and Rice hot, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired for a burst of color.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). When reheating leftovers, splash in a little broth to keep it moist.

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