Looking for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress? Look no further than our Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe. This delightful dish combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with a rich, creamy rice mixture, loaded with vegetables and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a hearty meal with friends, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1 onion, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Brown them on both sides in the skillet, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once browned, remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add mushrooms and broccoli to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the long-grain rice. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors from the vegetables.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Place the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet, making sure they are well-covered with the rice mixture.
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Tips:
Serve Hot and Fresh: Present Smothered Chicken and Rice immediately after baking for the best taste and texture.
Pair with Complementary Sides: Accompany the dish with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to enhance the meal.
Garnish Thoughtfully: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley over the dish before serving for an appealing presentation.
Storage Tips:
Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat with Care: To enjoy leftovers, gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain moisture.
Avoid Freezing: Due to the creamy texture, freezing may alter the consistency of the dish. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
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FAQs:
Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of rice, such as basmati or jasmine rice. However, cooking times may vary. Long-grain rice is recommended for its ability to absorb flavors and maintain a firm texture without becoming mushy. If using a different type of rice, keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust liquid quantities as needed.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Smothered Chicken and Rice ahead of time. To do so, follow the recipe up to the point of baking. Cover and refrigerate the skillet (make sure it’s oven-safe). When ready to serve, preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish and microwave until heated through, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain moisture.
Can I add other vegetables or ingredients to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or additional ingredients. Bell peppers, carrots, or peas can be great additions. You can also add cooked bacon or cheese for extra flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking times for any additional ingredients to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
Conclusion:
Our Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe is a delightful, creamy dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, it’s perfect for those nights when you need a comforting meal. Try it today and discover your new favorite dinner!
📖 Recipe:
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Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy a rich and creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice dish that combines tender chicken breasts with flavorful rice, vegetables, and a luscious sauce. Perfect for family dinners and easy to make, this recipe will become a staple in your home. Keywords: smothered chicken and rice, creamy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onion and garlic. Sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add mushrooms and broccoli, cook for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in rice and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb flavors.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Place the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet, covering them with the rice mixture.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or peas.
For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
