Description
This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice dish combines tender, perfectly seasoned chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy sauce and rice. It’s a one-pan, comfort-food meal that’s full of flavor and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
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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
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For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
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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
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For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
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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.
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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.
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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.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Combine:
- 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.
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Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, smothered chicken with rice!
Notes
- You can use any type of rice for this recipe, but long-grain white rice works best for the texture.
- To add some vegetables, you can toss in peas or spinach to the creamy sauce before serving.
- For extra creaminess, you can substitute part of the milk with heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American