Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
A delightful dish combining tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce served over fluffy rice. Perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts High-quality chicken for best results.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- to taste black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth For cooking rice and sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt For rice.
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk Use for creaminess.
- 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
- to taste fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the seasoned chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a rolling boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, lower the heat and add unsalted butter until melted.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until light golden.
- Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Stir in garlic powder and thyme, cooking for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated.
Combining Everything
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Cover and simmer on low for about 10 minutes.
- Plate the cooked rice and top with creamy smothered chicken. Drizzle additional sauce over top and garnish with fresh parsley.
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Notes
For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Also, try different cheeses or add fresh herbs for enhanced flavors.