Description
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a rich and comforting meal that features perfectly cooked chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce and served over a bed of fluffy rice. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re craving something indulgent but easy to make.
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
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil. Add the rice, stir, and cover with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and all the liquid is absorbed. Set aside.
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Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should be 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 about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add the whole milk and chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese, continuing to whisk until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Assemble the Dish:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken.
- Serve the chicken on top of the cooked rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can sauté some chopped onions and garlic in the skillet before making the sauce.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American