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:
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Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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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:
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In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
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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:
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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.
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Slowly add the milk and chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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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:
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Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the rice. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken.
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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.
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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
