What is Creamy Smothered Chicken?

It’s a Southern-inspired version of creamy garlic chicken with extra spices and a thicker, gravy-like sauce served over rice or potatoes.

How Do You Make Creamy Smothered Chicken Thighs?

Sear seasoned chicken thighs, add them to a creamy garlic sauce, and simmer gently until tender and smothered in rich flavor.

Can You Make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice Ahead of Time?

Yes! This dish reheats well. Store it in the fridge and warm slowly on the stove with a bit of milk or broth.

How to Make Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice in 30 Minutes?

Use thin chicken cutlets, quick-cook rice, and pre-shredded cheese. The result is the same delicious comfort meal — ready fast.

Creamy Garlic Chicken And Rice – The Best One-Pan Dinner Ever!

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breasts; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Parsley for garnish

Description

This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice recipe brings together juicy seared chicken, fluffy rice, and a velvety garlic cream sauce — all cooked in one pan. Quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, this dish is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
1½ cups chicken broth (low sodium)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus more for garnish)
¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions

Season and Sear Chicken: Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken on both sides for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: In the same pan, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in uncooked rice to coat with garlic butter. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in parmesan cheese until smooth.
Simmer Together: Return chicken to the pan, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
Finish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm with extra sauce spooned over the top.

Notes

Substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

Stir in spinach or mushrooms before simmering for extra nutrition.

If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk before serving.

Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One-Pan / Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with rice
Calories: 525 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 460 mg
Fat: 29 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 38 g
Cholesterol: 150 mg

Keywords: creamy garlic chicken, creamy garlic chicken and rice, one-pan chicken recipe, garlic butter chicken, creamy smothered chicken