Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice (Print)

Tender chicken smothered in a velvety sauce with perfectly cooked rice - a comforting one-pot wonder ready in just 35 minutes.

# Ingredients:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 1.5 lbs (about 3 medium) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
02 - 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
03 - 1 tsp garlic powder
04 - 1 tsp onion powder
05 - ½ tsp smoked paprika
06 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ For the Creamy Sauce

07 - 1 tbsp butter
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1 cup heavy cream (or half & half for lighter option)
10 - ½ cup chicken broth
11 - ½ cup sour cream
12 - ½ tsp mustard (optional)
13 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
15 - Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

→ For Serving

16 - 3 cups cooked white rice (long grain or jasmine)

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
02 - In the same pan, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 1 minute to deglaze. Add heavy cream, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
03 - Return cooked chicken to the pan. Simmer everything together for another 3–4 minutes so the chicken is smothered and coated in the sauce.
04 - Plate a scoop of warm cooked rice. Spoon creamy chicken and sauce generously on top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and a fresh touch.

# Notes:

01 - For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
02 - Use a mixture of chicken broth and water for a lighter sauce if desired.
03 - Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition.
04 - A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
05 - Garlic bread or dinner rolls are great for soaking up the creamy sauce.