Some nights, we just need an easy, no-fuss meal that feels like a warm hug. That’s where Smothered Chicken and Rice comes in. It’s creamy, hearty, and ridiculously simple to make. Whether you’re using a pressure cooker or a slow cooker, this recipe guarantees a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
If you’ve had one of those days where you’re juggling work, kids, and life in general, this dish will save you. You throw everything into the pot, let it work its magic, and boom—dinner is done! No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps, just pure comfort food. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, which is always a win!
What Is Smothered Chicken and Rice?
If you’ve never had Smothered Chicken and Rice, you’re in for a treat. It’s essentially tender, shredded chicken bathed in a rich, savory gravy, served over a bed of fluffy rice. The combination is pure magic. The chicken soaks up all the flavors, and the creamy sauce coats every grain of rice perfectly.
This dish is one of those meals that remind you of home. I grew up watching my mom make it in her slow cooker, and no matter how easy it was, it always tasted special. There’s just something about a creamy, home-cooked meal that feels like nostalgia on a plate.
Speaking of home-cooked goodness, if you love oven-roasted chicken, you should check out these Oven Roasted Chicken Thighs for another comforting meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare – Just toss everything in and let it cook itself.
- Minimal ingredients – You probably already have everything in your kitchen.
- Perfect for busy nights – No chopping, no sautéing, just dump and go.
- Family-approved – Kids love it, and picky eaters won’t complain!
- Versatile – Works with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even cauliflower rice.
If you’re looking for more chicken dinner ideas with rice, you might also love this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice!
Ingredients Needed
For this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice, you’ll need:
- 4 frozen chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup water
- 1 packet chicken gravy mix
- 3 cups hot cooked rice (for serving)
That’s it! No complicated grocery list, no hard-to-find ingredients. Just simple, delicious food.
How to Make Smothered Chicken and Rice
Pressure Cooker Method
- Add water to your pressure cooker.
- Pour in cream of chicken soup—do not stir.
- Place frozen chicken breasts on top.
- Cook on poultry setting for 20 minutes, then allow a natural release.
- Remove chicken and shred it with two forks.
- Mix gravy packet with water and stir into the pot.
- Set the pressure cooker to sauté and cook until thickened.
- Return shredded chicken to the sauce.
- Serve over hot cooked rice and enjoy!
Slow Cooker Method
- Place frozen chicken, soup, and water in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the chicken and mix it into the sauce.
- Prepare your hot cooked rice.
- Serve chicken over rice and dig in!
For another quick and easy dinner with chicken, try this Honey Garlic Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
While Smothered Chicken and Rice is a meal on its own, adding a side makes it even better. Here are some great pairings:
- Steamed asparagus – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Mashed potatoes – If you want an extra creamy base.
- Roasted green beans – A crunchy, healthy side.
- Buttered corn – Sweet and buttery, it’s a classic.
If you love cheesy chicken dinner recipes, check out this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have a video tutorial?
Yes! Check the recipe card for a step-by-step video guide.
Can I use a rice substitute?
Absolutely! Mashed potatoes or egg noodles work great.
What if I don’t want to use cream of chicken soup?
You can make a homemade version using a butter-flour-milk mixture.
What’s the best pressure cooker for this recipe?
We love the 6qt Instant Pot Duo—it’s reliable and easy to use.
Any other quick and easy dinner recipes?
Yes! Try our Crispy Baked Ranch Chicken.
Storage & Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
How to Reheat
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, adding a splash of water.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
This recipe also works great as Leftover Chicken with Rice for meal prep!
More Easy Dinner Recipes
If you loved this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice, check out these delicious dinner recipes with cooked chicken:
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
- 4 frozen chicken breasts
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup water
- 1 packet chicken gravy mix
- 3 cups hot cooked rice for serving
Instructions
Pressure Cooker Method:
- Pour water into the pressure cooker.
- Add cream of chicken soup (do not stir).
- Place frozen chicken breasts on top of the soup.
- Cook on poultry setting for 20 minutes, then allow a natural release.
- Remove the chicken and shred with two forks.
- Mix the gravy packet with water, whisk until smooth, and stir into the sauce.
- Set the pressure cooker to sauté and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Return the shredded chicken to the sauce.
- Serve over hot cooked rice and enjoy!
Slow Cooker Method:
- Add chicken breasts, cream of chicken soup, and water to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Remove chicken and shred.
- Stir gravy mix with water, then mix into the slow cooker.
- Let the sauce thicken for 10 minutes.
- Serve over hot cooked rice and enjoy!
Notes
- If using fresh chicken breasts, reduce the cooking time to 15 minutes (pressure cooker) or 4-6 hours (slow cooker on low).
- Swap out the rice for mashed potatoes or egg noodles for variety.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain the creamy texture.
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