Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible even for novice cooks.
One-Pan Convenience: The entire meal is prepared in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.
Comforting Flavors: The combination of tender chicken, creamy rice, and savory vegetables creates a comforting and satisfying meal.

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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sear Chicken: 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.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add Vegetables: Add mushrooms and broccoli to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Incorporate Rice: Stir in the long-grain rice. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors from the vegetables.
Combine Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Reintroduce Chicken: Place the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet, making sure they are well-covered with the rice mixture.
Bake: 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 and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
Cooking Time: Around 45 minutes, including both stovetop and oven cooking.

Variations

Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs for a juicier option, for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Additions: Incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or peas to add more color and nutrients to the dish.
Grain Substitutes: Replace long-grain rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist; adjust cooking times and liquid ratios accordingly.
Herb Enhancements: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor complexity.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the mixture appears dry.
Freezing: Due to the creamy nature of the dish, freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture upon thawing.

FAQs

What type of rice works best for this recipe?

Long-grain white rice is recommended for its ability to absorb flavors and maintain a firm texture without becoming mushy.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and may offer a juicier result. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure they are cooked through.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake in a preheated oven, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.

How can I add more flavor to the dish?

Consider marinating the chicken beforehand, adding a splash of white wine to the sauce, or incorporating additional herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make the dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative and ensure the oil used is plant-based.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread pair well with Smothered Chicken and Rice, complementing its rich flavors.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Ensure you use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid overbaking. Checking for doneness at the minimum cooking time can help prevent mushy rice.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, sprinkling shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan over the top before baking can add a delicious cheesy crust.