Creamy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe | Quick Chicken Dinner 🍗🍚✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for **chicken and rice ideas** that are both quick and comforting, look no further than this decadent Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal combines seasoned chicken, rich sauce, and fluffy rice for a kid-friendly dinner that everyone will love. Whether you’re after **fast and easy chicken dinner recipes** or a budget-friendly meal with chicken, this dish hits the mark with its irresistible cream sauce and tender shredded chicken. This dish also makes a fantastic addition to your collection of **kid friendly dinner recipes for family** and **cheap rice meals**. Ready to turn simple ingredients into a hearty feast? Keep reading!
2. Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons 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 or evaporated milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for seasoning)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- optional: sliced mushrooms, spinach, or other veggies
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Creamy Chicken and Rice
Preparation of Chicken and Seasoning
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Rice and Making the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then sauté any veggies you like (e.g., mushrooms or spinach) until tender. Add the rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Shredding the Chicken and Combining Everything
While rice is cooking, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Once the rice is ready, stir in the shredded chicken, heavy cream, and half of the shredded cheese. Simmer gently until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy. For a more intense flavor, you can add some seasonings or hot sauce as per taste.
Serving the Creamy Chicken and Rice
Serve your **creamy chicken and rice** hot, garnished with fresh parsley or additional cheese. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete **meal with chicken** that everyone will find irresistible. Check out these chicken meatloaf with garlic parmesan flavor for more inspiration.
4. Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Ideas
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a skillet until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions and reheat as needed. This meal reheats well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep for busy weekdays or quick weeknight dinners.
5. Serving Suggestions and Variations
Enhance your **dinner ideas kids will love** by serving this creamy chicken and rice with a side of garlic bread or a simple vegetable medley. You can also add a splash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapenos for a spicy twist. For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
6. Related Recipes and Inspiration
Interested in other **chicken and rice ideas**? Try this flavorful chicken enchilada crock pot meal or enjoy a cozy bowl of lemon chicken orzo soup for a variation on your **meal with chicken**. For more **kid-friendly dinner recipes for family**, check out rotisserie chicken tostadas.
7. FAQs on Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Can I make this recipe healthier? Yes! Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, and add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- What’s the best type of rice to use? Long-grain white rice works best for this creamy dish, but brown rice can be substituted for a healthier option.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the dish, then refrigerate. Reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to serve.
- Is this recipe kid-friendly? Yes! It’s a comforting, cheesy dish that kids love, making it ideal for family dinners.
8. Recommended Kitchen Equipment & Tools
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Perfect for sautéing and simmering
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — For prep work like chopping vegetables
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — Great for making larger batches or slow-cooking the chicken for extra flavor
9. Conclusion
This creamy smothered chicken and rice recipe is a perfect example of **quick chicken dinner** ideas that are both delicious and budget-friendly. With tender shredded chicken, rich sauce, and fluffy rice, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for **fast and easy chicken dinner recipes** or versatile **dinner ideas kids will love**, this dish checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s easily customizable with your favorite veggies or spices. Try making it tonight for a comforting, satisfying meal — and enjoy a wholesome **meal with chicken** that everyone will rave about!
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Creamy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe | Quick Chicken Dinner
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Discover the ultimate quick and creamy chicken and rice recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender shredded chicken combined with a rich, cheesy sauce and fluffy rice creates a comforting, kid-friendly meal everyone will love. This easy-to-make dish is customizable with vegetables and spices, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons 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 or evaporated milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for seasoning)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: sliced mushrooms, spinach, or other veggies
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté any vegetables you like until tender. Add the rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 15 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- While the rice cooks, shred the cooked chicken. Once done, stir in the shredded chicken, heavy cream, and half of the shredded cheese. Simmer gently until cheese melts and mixture is creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or additional cheese. Add optional sides like steamed vegetables or salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a healthier version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in microwave or skillet.
- Can be frozen for longer storage; reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American