This Smothered Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor! It’s a one-pan wonder that makes weeknight dinners easy and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Hearty & Comforting – Creamy, flavorful rice with tender chicken.
✔ One-Dish Meal – Everything bakes together for easy prep & cleanup.
✔ Crowd-Pleasing – Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble ahead and bake when ready.
Ingredients
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (14 oz) chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
• Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet).
• Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
• In the same skillet, add chopped onion and green bell pepper.
• Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Step 4: Prepare the Rice Mixture
• In a large bowl, whisk together:
✅ Cream of chicken soup
✅ Cream of mushroom soup
✅ Chicken broth
✅ Uncooked rice
Step 5: Assemble & Bake
• Spread the sautéed onions & peppers in the baking dish.
• Lay the browned chicken breasts on top.
• Pour the rice and soup mixture evenly over the chicken.
• Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
• Remove from the oven, let it sit for a few minutes, then serve warm.
Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken and Rice
✔ Sear for Extra Flavor – Browning the chicken locks in juices and adds depth.
✔ Don’t Skip the Foil – Covering helps the rice absorb liquid evenly.
✔ Let It Rest – Resting for 5 minutes after baking helps flavors meld.
✔ Prefer a Creamier Dish? – Stir in 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese before baking.
Variations to Try
🔸 Cheesy Version – Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top before baking.
🔸 Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
🔸 Veggie Boost – Toss in mushrooms, peas, or carrots.
🔸 Different Protein – Swap chicken breasts for thighs for extra juiciness.
Storage & Reheating
• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) or microwave until heated through.