One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice is a delightful, hearty meal that brings comfort to your dining table. This recipe features perfectly seared chicken paired with creamy seasoned rice and a rich, flavorful sauce—all cooked in a single skillet. It’s not just an easy weeknight dinner; it’s also ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, you’ll find this dish quickly becomes a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Convenient one-pan meal: Enjoy easy preparation and cleanup as everything cooks in one skillet.
• Flavorful and creamy: The combination of rich sauces and perfectly cooked rice creates a deliciously comforting dish.
• Versatile ingredients: Customize with your choice of vegetables or spices to make it your own.
• Quick cooking time: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-friendly: A dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone is satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for browning chicken and cooking rice without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results 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 the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. 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. Remove from the skillet, let it rest briefly, then dice into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. If using mushrooms, add them now and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Stir in the long-grain white rice into the skillet with onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Toast the rice for 1–2 minutes while stirring constantly to enhance its flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

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

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 6: Simmer Until Cooked Through

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

Step 7: Finish Up

Remove from heat and let sit uncovered for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving hot by spooning sauce over chicken. 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 a delightful experience that can elevate your meal. This dish is not only hearty and comforting but also visually appealing, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing for a light, refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing and croutons adds a rich flavor that complements the dish well.

Add a Side of Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots enhance the meal’s flavor profile and add an appealing sweetness.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toast some bread with garlic butter for a delicious accompaniment that can help soak up the creamy sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce on your plate.

How to Perfect One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

Perfecting One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice comes down to simple techniques that enhance flavor and texture. Follow these tips for an even better dish.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season both the chicken and the rice properly. This enhances flavor in every bite.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, onion, and herbs will elevate the taste compared to dried or pre-packaged options.
• Sear the chicken well: Achieve a golden-brown crust on the chicken by not overcrowding the pan during searing. This adds depth of flavor.
• Adjust liquid based on rice type: If using brown rice instead of white, increase cooking time and liquid amount for optimal results.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit after cooking helps flavors meld together, making each bite more delicious.
• Garnish creatively: Don’t skip garnishing with fresh parsley or other herbs; it adds brightness and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

To create a complete meal, consider serving side dishes that complement your One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide comfort alongside the main dish.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus spears add elegance and freshness to the meal.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings a delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs well with saucy dishes.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and a bit of crunch, balancing out the creaminess of the chicken and rice.
5. Baked Beans: Savory baked beans offer a hearty side that complements the flavors of smothered chicken wonderfully.
6. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad tossed with vegetables provides a nutritious boost while being light enough not to overpower your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and rice adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown sear and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Using regular rice instead of long-grain: Using a different type of rice might alter the texture and cooking time. Stick to long-grain white rice for best results.
• Skipping the resting time: Not letting the dish rest after cooking can result in excess liquid. Allow it to sit covered for a few minutes before serving for better consistency.
• Using low-quality broth: The flavor of your dish heavily relies on the broth. Choose low-sodium, high-quality chicken broth for richer taste.
• Rushing the simmering process: Skipping the gentle simmer can leave your rice undercooked. Ensure you simmer on low heat until everything is tender and well combined.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Let the dish cool down slightly before sealing it to avoid condensation.

Freezing One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Divide into portions for easy thawing later.

Reheating One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power until hot (about 3-5 minutes), stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of broth or water, cover, and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice?

One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting meal featuring seared chicken, creamy rice, and flavorful sauce all cooked together in one skillet.

Can I customize One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas or bell peppers or swap out chicken for turkey or lamb based on your preference.

How do I make One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice spicier?

To add heat, increase the cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños while cooking. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.

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

This dish pairs nicely with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for added color and nutrition.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires longer cooking time. Adjust your simmering time accordingly.

Conclusion

One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice is not just easy to prepare; it’s also packed with flavor that will delight your family at dinner. With options for customization, you can make this dish fit any preference or dietary need. Give it a try for your next weeknight meal!

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