Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting classic that brings warmth to any dinner table. The chicken is tender, the sauce is creamy, and when served over rice, it creates a dish that is both filling and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to make, which makes it a great choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. You’ll love how quickly this recipe comes together and how much flavor it packs!
How to Make the Best Smothered Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Sear the chicken in a hot skillet for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent (about 3 minutes).
- In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, soy sauce, paprika, and thyme.
- Place the seared chicken in the baking dish and pour the sauce mixture over the top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
- Serve over cooked rice and enjoy!
How to Serve the Best Smothered Chicken and Rice
Best Smothered Chicken and Rice is best served hot, directly from the oven. Spoon the creamy sauce and juicy chicken over a bed of rice for a complete meal. You can also add a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the plate. Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for an extra pop of color and flavor.
How to Store Best Smothered Chicken and Rice
To store leftovers, let the dish cool down completely. Place the chicken and rice in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze it. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it will last for about 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make the Best Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Make sure to sear the chicken well for flavor. A good sear creates a nice golden crust.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix, like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker option!
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by using different types of protein, such as pork chops or turkey. For a lighter version, consider using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure it reaches the safe internal temperature before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with tofu or a mix of hearty vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth as well.
Smothered Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Sear the chicken in a hot skillet for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent (about 3 minutes).
- In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, soy sauce, paprika, and thyme.
- Place the seared chicken in the baking dish and pour the sauce mixture over the top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
- Serve hot over cooked rice and enjoy!
