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Dinner

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

This comforting one pot meal features juicy chicken and fluffy rice in a rich cheesy sauce that the whole family will love.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 American· July 17, 2026
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
dailyrecipesbook.com
Prep
10 minutes
Cook
35 minutes
Total
45 minutes
Serves
4

There is something so satisfying about a meal that comes together in just one pot. This smothered chicken and rice is my go to when I want something cozy and filling without spending all evening washing dishes.

The key to this dish is letting the chicken simmer until it is perfectly tender. If you want a little extra flavor, feel free to add a pinch of smoked paprika to the chicken seasoning before you start searing.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone in and skin on
  • 1 cup long grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. 1

    Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

  2. 2

    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium high heat.

  3. 3

    Sear the chicken thighs skin side down for about 5 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes.

  4. 4

    Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

  5. 5

    Add the dry rice to the same pan and stir it around for a minute to toast it slightly in the pan juices.

  6. 6

    Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any tasty browned bits.

  7. 7

    Return the chicken to the pan, nestling the pieces into the rice and liquid mixture.

  8. 8

    Cover the pan with a tight lid and reduce the heat to low.

  9. 9

    Simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

  10. 10

    Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and cover for 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

💡 Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to settle. Serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness.

#comfort food#chicken#dinner#one pot meal#easy dinner

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