Description
This comforting Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe features tender chicken breasts nestled in a creamy, flavorful rice mixture infused with thyme and garlic. Cooked in one oven-safe skillet, it combines the ease of searing and baking to deliver a cozy, satisfying meal perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Rice and Sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken and rice dish.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them for 3–4 minutes per side until they develop a golden crust. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant, infusing flavor into the skillet base.
- Toast Rice: Stir in the uncooked rice with the onions and garlic, toasting it for about 1 minute to enhance its nuttiness.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then add thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine into a creamy sauce base.
- Combine Chicken and Rice: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet on top of the rice mixture, spooning some of the sauce over the chicken to keep it moist.
- Bake Covered: Cover the skillet tightly (with a lid or foil) and bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked through and the rice is tender and creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, sprinkle the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty meal.
Notes
- Using an oven-safe skillet is key to searing on the stovetop and finishing in the oven without transferring dishes.
- For an extra creamy dish, you may substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the texture will be lighter.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- You can swap fresh thyme for ½ teaspoon dried thyme if that is more accessible.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheated gently to preserve creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
