Description
This Best Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a savory mushroom sauce, baked to perfection, and served over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. The combination of garlic, onions, and flavorful spices creates a comforting, hearty meal perfect for a family dinner or weeknight feast.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Sauce
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
To Serve
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Season and Sear Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown, locking in juices and adding flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing them until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, low-sodium chicken broth, soy sauce, paprika, and dried thyme, stirring thoroughly to create a smooth sauce.
- Combine and Bake: Place the seared chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake covered in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and tender.
- Serve: Remove the cover and serve the smothered chicken hot over cooked rice (white or brown) and enjoy your flavorful, comforting meal!
Notes
- For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup for a different flavor.
- Leftover smothered chicken pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Brown rice can be used instead of white rice for a healthier option.
- To reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: smothered chicken, chicken and rice, baked chicken recipe, creamy mushroom chicken, comfort food, easy dinner recipe
