Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
creamy smothered chicken & rice - featured image

Creamy Smothered Chicken & Rice: 5-Ingredient Easy Dinner


  • Author: ava_chapman
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A comforting, one-pot weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken thighs, fluffy rice, and a rich, velvety creamy gravy made with just a few simple ingredients.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 medium yellow onions, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat butter in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, sauté diced onions over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic in the last minute.
  4. Add uncooked rice to the pot and stir constantly for 2 minutes to toast slightly.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to scrape up browned bits from the bottom. Add dried thyme.
  6. Return chicken thighs to the pot, nesting them into the rice mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
  7. Cover tightly and simmer for 20-25 minutes without lifting the lid.
  8. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve immediately.

Notes

Rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch for fluffier results. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Do not lift the lid while simmering to maintain steam. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 4
  • Sodium: 800
  • Fat: 35
  • Saturated Fat: 18
  • Carbohydrates: 45
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 30

Keywords: chicken and rice, creamy chicken, one pot meal, easy dinner, comfort food, weeknight dinner, smothered chicken