Description
This Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe offers a comforting one-pan meal with tender, browned chicken breasts nestled in a creamy, flavorful rice mixture loaded with mushrooms, broccoli, and aromatic garlic and onions. Perfectly baked to juicy perfection, it makes a hearty and satisfying dinner option for the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
Grains & Dairy
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 cup heavy cream
Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the chicken and rice to tender perfection.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat to create a base for browning the chicken and sautéing vegetables.
- Brown Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then brown them in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side to lock in flavor and moisture. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes, building layers of flavor.
- Cook Vegetables: Add sliced mushrooms and broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes to soften and develop taste.
- Add Rice: Stir in the long-grain rice, cooking it for 2 minutes so it begins to absorb the flavors from the pan.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently to combine everything evenly.
- Combine Chicken with Rice: Nestle the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet, ensuring they are covered by the rice and cream mixture.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender and creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot for a comforting, flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables such as green beans or bell peppers according to preference.
- Use low-fat cream or milk for a lighter option, though it may reduce creaminess.
- Make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- If you do not have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the mixture to a baking dish before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
