Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken with creamy, cheesy sauce and fluffy rice. The rich garlic and herb flavors in the sauce complement the chicken beautifully, making each bite satisfying and full of flavor. The addition of cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy texture that’s indulgent yet balanced. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy nights when you need a comforting dinner that’s quick and easy to prepare!
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
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon thyme
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
For the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
For the Rice:
- In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Stir in the rice and salt, then cover the skillet and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
For the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a roux.
- Slowly add the milk and chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the garlic powder, thyme, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Assemble the Dish:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the rice. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken.
- Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb some of the sauce and the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 40-45 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning or the creamy sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with mushrooms or another plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
- Herb Variations: Try adding fresh rosemary or thyme in the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If needed, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to rehydrate the rice and sauce.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They will stay juicy and tender throughout the cooking process.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time and possibly add more liquid to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat and prepare the sauce to combine everything.
Can I freeze Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice?
Yes, you can freeze the dish (both the chicken and rice with the sauce) in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Can I make the sauce thicker?
Yes, if you want a thicker sauce, simply cook it for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid further or add a little more flour to the roux.
Can I use a non-dairy milk for the sauce?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with non-dairy milk such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, but keep in mind that it may slightly change the flavor and consistency of the sauce.
Can I use pre-cooked rice?
If you’re using pre-cooked rice, you can skip the step of cooking the rice in the broth. Simply heat the rice in the skillet and add it to the sauce before serving.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers can be added to the sauce or served alongside for added nutrition.
How do I make this dish spicier?
For a spicier version, you can add chili flakes to the sauce or season the chicken with cayenne pepper or paprika.
What can I serve with Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice?
This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or roasted potatoes.
Conclusion
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the perfect dish for a cozy, comforting dinner. With juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice, it’s a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. The rich, cheesy sauce makes this dish indulgent without being overly complicated, and the recipe is versatile enough to adjust to your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this creamy and flavorful dish is sure to become a favorite.
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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting, flavorful one-pot meal that combines tender chicken breasts, perfectly cooked rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce. This easy-to-make dish is packed with smoky spices, garlic, and fresh herbs, making it the perfect weeknight dinner. Creamy, cheesy, and hearty, it’s a family favorite that’s quick to prepare and sure to satisfy.
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
½ teaspoon salt
For the Creamy Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups whole milk
½ cup chicken broth
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon thyme
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
For the Chicken:
-
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
-
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
For the Rice:
-
In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
-
Stir in the rice and salt, then cover the skillet and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
For the Creamy Sauce:
-
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a roux.
-
Slowly add the milk and chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
-
Stir in the garlic powder, thyme, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Assemble the Dish:
-
Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the rice. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken.
-
Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb some of the sauce and the flavors to meld together.
-
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with mushrooms or another plant-based protein and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Herb Variations: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the sauce for more depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
