This creamy smothered chicken and rice is a comforting, one-pan meal packed with flavor. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, creamy sauce and served over fluffy rice. It’s an easy, satisfying dinner perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and a velvety cream sauce makes this dish incredibly indulgent and delicious.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s a complete meal made in just one skillet, which means easy cleanup. The creamy sauce adds so much richness, and the ranch seasoning gives it a bold, irresistible flavor. It’s also versatile—I can switch up the ingredients to fit what I have on hand. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good the next day!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the rice, chicken broth, and paprika. Stir to combine.
Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
In a small bowl, mix the heavy cream, sour cream, ranch seasoning, and dried thyme. Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and rice.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Different Cheese: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend for a unique twist.
Add Vegetables: Stir in peas, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Low-Carb Version: Substitute cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
Herb Swap: Use fresh thyme or parsley instead of dried thyme for a fresher flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it from drying out. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
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FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook, so I would add extra broth and increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.
What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?
If I don’t have ranch seasoning, I mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried dill, and a little salt for a homemade version.
Can I make this in the oven instead of on the stovetop?
Yes! I would prepare everything in an oven-safe skillet and then bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, covering it with foil to keep the moisture in.
What can I serve with this dish?
This is a complete meal on its own, but I sometimes serve it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for extra freshness.
Conclusion
Creamy smothered chicken and rice is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights when I want something comforting yet easy to make. With its rich, cheesy sauce and tender chicken, it’s always a hit at the dinner table. Plus, with so many ways to customize it, I never get bored of making it. Give it a try, and enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
📖 Recipe:
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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This creamy smothered chicken and rice is the ultimate one-pan comfort food! Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, cheesy, and flavorful cream sauce, then served over fluffy rice. Made with ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and savory spices, this easy skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, then set aside.
- Cook the Rice: In the same skillet, add rice, chicken broth, paprika, and dried thyme. Stir well.
- Simmer: Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sour cream, and ranch seasoning. Pour over the chicken and rice.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover, and cook for 5 more minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish & Serve: Top with chopped green onions and serve warm.
Notes
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack.
Add Veggies: Stir in peas, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: One-Pan, Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal
