When I want a cozy, flavorful dinner that’s simple to prepare, this Creamy Smothered Chicken with Rice is a favorite.
Tender bite-sized chicken pieces are seared to golden perfection, then bathed in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce enriched with sour cream and Parmesan.
Served over fluffy white rice, it’s a soul-warming meal that satisfies every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple one-pan cooking with minimal cleanup
Rich, creamy sauce with a perfect balance of tang and umami
Tender, juicy chicken infused with smoky and savory spices
Quick prep time ideal for busy weeknights
Classic comfort food that’s versatile and crowd-pleasing
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Chicken breasts or thighs, cut bite-sized for quick cooking and tenderness
Olive oil or butter for searing with rich flavor
Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika for warm, smoky seasoning
Heavy cream and sour cream create the luscious, tangy sauce base
Chicken broth for depth and to deglaze the pan
Parmesan cheese adds umami richness and thickens the sauce
Fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness
Cooked white rice to serve and soak up every bit of creamy sauce
Pro Tips Before You Start
Cut chicken into evenly sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
Don’t overcook chicken—remove from heat as soon as it’s done to keep it juicy.
Use the same pan for sauce to capture all the browned bits for extra flavor.
Simmer the sauce gently; avoid boiling to keep cream smooth.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture and flavor.
Let the sauce thicken enough to coat the chicken well but still be saucy.
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken with Rice
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season chicken chunks with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add to skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes).
Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter.
Add minced garlic and sauté about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 1 minute to deglaze the pan.
Add heavy cream, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.
Let simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Smother the Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.
Simmer together for 3–4 minutes to allow flavors to meld and chicken to reheat.
Step 4: Serve
Spoon warm cooked white rice onto plates.
Top generously with creamy smothered chicken and sauce.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness.
What to Serve It With
Simple steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or asparagus
A crisp green salad to balance the richness
Garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the sauce
Cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative
Pickled vegetables or a tangy slaw for a contrasting bite
Variations / Substitutions
Use boneless skinless thighs for juicier meat
Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter tang
Swap heavy cream for half & half if you prefer a lighter sauce
Add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra veggies
Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added fiber
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
This dish also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just thaw completely before cooking for even results.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
No, it contains cream, sour cream, and Parmesan. Use dairy-free alternatives to make it dairy-free.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce in advance and gently reheat before adding the chicken.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
Regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder can be used instead.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I keep the chicken tender?
Cut into uniform pieces and avoid overcooking.
Remove chicken promptly when done.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Smothered Chicken with Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s surprisingly easy to make.
The creamy, garlicky sauce perfectly complements tender chicken, creating a meal that feels indulgent but comes together quickly.
It’s perfect for busy nights or when you want a satisfying dinner that feels homemade and special.
