Description
A creamy, flavorful one-pan dinner featuring spiced chicken in a rich, garlic-infused cream sauce served over fluffy long-grain rice. This smothered chicken and rice dish is packed with warmth, perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
For the rice:
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Rinse the rice under cold water, then add to a pot with water or chicken broth, butter, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the creamy spiced sauce. Let it heat through for a few minutes.
Serve the creamy spiced chicken over the prepared rice.
Notes
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Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the level of paprika, cumin, or garlic powder based on your flavor preferences.
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Rice Choice: Long-grain white rice gives the best texture, but jasmine or basmati are also excellent options.
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Meal Prep Tip: Store chicken and rice separately for the best texture during reheating.
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Add-Ons: Stir in sautéed spinach or peas at the end for a veggie boost.
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Pan Choice: Use a deep, heavy skillet for even cooking and sauce retention.