Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
A delightful dish combining tender chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce served over fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste Salt and black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For searing the chicken
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon salt For cooking the rice
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
To Serve
- to taste Fresh parsley Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Searing the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Rice
- In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce.
- Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cheese is melted.
Combining Everything
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Serving
- Plate the cooked rice and top with the smothered chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly. Let the rice sit covered after cooking for enhanced fluffiness. Adjust seasoning to taste and add herbs as desired. For extra flavor, consider incorporating lemon juice before serving.