One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

This One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that brings comfort to your dinner table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe features tender chicken and creamy rice in a luscious sauce, all cooked in one skillet. It’s not just easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a meal everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of spices and creamy sauce creates a rich flavor that elevates simple ingredients.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or changing up the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 45 minutes, this meal fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser! Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors of this dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowl

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking and helps evenly distribute heat for perfect results.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring everything is well mixed.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

This One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice is a hearty, comforting meal made with tender seared chicken, creamy seasoned rice, and a rich smothered sauce—all cooked in one skillet for easy prep and cleanup. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner the whole family will love.

For the Chicken and Rice:

• 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)

For the Smothered Sauce:

• 1 can (10.5 oz cream of chicken soup)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

How to Make One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Season Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 2: Cook Aromatics

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest briefly. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for about 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. If using mushrooms, add them now and sauté for about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Toast Rice

Add long-grain white rice to the skillet. Toast it by stirring constantly for about 1–2 minutes until slightly golden.

Step 4: Prepare Smothered Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour in low-sodium chicken broth along with heavy cream (or milk). Stir in the sauce mixture until fully combined. Add diced chicken back into the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Simmer

Reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 20–25 minutes until rice is tender, chicken is cooked through (165°F), and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from heat and let sit uncovered for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot. Spoon sauce and rice generously over each piece of chicken as you plate it up.

Enjoy your delicious One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice!

How to Serve One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

Serving One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice is simple and enjoyable. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious meal.

Use Fresh Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty kick.

Pair with Crunchy Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green broccoli complements the creamy rice.
• Sliced cucumbers: Crisp cucumbers can add a refreshing crunch to your plate.

Add a Light Salad

• Caesar salad: The crispness of romaine and creamy dressing balances the richness of the chicken.
• Garden salad: A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers is always a hit.

How to Perfect One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

To make your One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice even better, consider these helpful tips for preparation and cooking.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Don’t rush the browning: Allow the chicken to sear properly for that delicious golden crust.
• Monitor rice doneness carefully: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences for more flavor.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld together.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

Enhancing your meal with side dishes can create a more balanced dining experience. Here are some great options that pair nicely with One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice.

1. Garlic bread: Slices of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
2. Roasted asparagus: This elegant vegetable adds a touch of sophistication and pairs beautifully with chicken.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken dish.
4. Quinoa salad: This nutritious option brings additional texture and flavor to your plate.
5. Corn on the cob: Sweet corn complements savory dishes wonderfully, making it a favorite choice.
6. Baked sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances out the rich flavors in the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and ensure a perfect dish.

• Ignoring the chicken’s doneness: Always check that the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a meat thermometer helps prevent undercooking or overcooking.
• Skipping the seasoning: Properly season the chicken and rice with salt and pepper. This step enhances flavor. Don’t skip it, as bland food is often unappealing.
• Not letting the dish rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows flavors to meld and improves texture.
• Overcooking the rice: Keep an eye on the rice while it simmers. Overcooked rice can become mushy. Follow the timing closely for perfect grains.
• Using high-sodium broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels in your dish. This helps maintain a balanced flavor profile without overwhelming saltiness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Divide into portions for easy reheating later on.

Reheating One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. Switching up the spices can also give it a new twist.

What sides go well with One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice?

Serve it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Bread rolls or garlic bread are also great options.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything except adding the cream sauce ahead of time. Just combine everything before cooking when you’re ready to eat.

What is the best way to store leftovers of One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for longer storage.

Conclusion

One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with your family. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices!

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