Description
This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe features tender, seasoned chicken breasts cooked to perfection and served over fluffy rice in a rich, cheesy cream sauce. It’s a comforting and hearty meal that combines smoky spices, creamy textures, and savory cheeses, making it a perfect option for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
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
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, chicken broth, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Set aside.
- Season and Cook the Chicken: While the rice is cooking, season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Add garlic powder and thyme. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes, until it thickens.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the creamy sauce, stirring to combine. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the creamy rice mixture. Cover and simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, smothered chicken with rice!
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the salt content if desired.
- Can substitute whole milk with 2% milk for a lighter sauce.
- To make it gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
