Description
This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is rich, comforting, and full of flavor. Easy to make and perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes or until tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
5. Gradually add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce.
6. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens and cheese is melted.
7. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
8. Plate the cooked rice and top with the smothered chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor to the dish, so don’t skip this step.
Use medium-high heat for a golden crust that locks in moisture.
You can substitute brown rice for a whole grain option—just adjust the cooking time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 44g
- Cholesterol: 130mg