Description
Succulent smothered chicken and rice delivers Southern comfort on a plate. Creamy, savory sauce and tender chicken create a hearty meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Carbohydrates:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Dairy and Seasonings:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Infuse olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat at 350°F, generously coating chicken with aromatic spice blend for robust flavor profile.
- Expertly sear chicken pieces until achieving a golden, caramelized exterior, creating delectable crispy texture; transfer protein to temporary resting plate.
- Utilize identical cooking vessel to transform chopped aromatics, gently sweating onions, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms until translucent and fragrant.
- Introduce rice grains, carefully toasting to enhance nutty undertones and develop complex flavor dimensions.
- Pour chicken broth and luxurious heavy cream into skillet, whisking methodically while incorporating melted cheddar cheese for velvety consistency.
- Strategically reposition seared chicken pieces within creamy rice mixture, ensuring complete protein submersion; reduce heat to low, cover, and allow gentle simmer for approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Verify chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F and rice achieves tender, fluffy texture.
- Elevate presentation by delicately garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, creating vibrant visual appeal and herbaceous finish.
- Serve immediately while maintaining optimal temperature and capturing rich, interconnected flavors.
Notes
- Swap chicken thighs or breasts depending on preference, ensuring consistent thickness for even cooking.
- Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for increased nutrition and color variety.
- For gluten-free option, confirm broth is certified gluten-free and use alternative thickening agents if needed.
- Reduce cream for lighter version or substitute with Greek yogurt to lower calories while maintaining creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 485 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg