Description
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a rich, creamy sauce and served over fluffy rice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is a family favorite that combines savory flavors and a smooth, cheesy sauce for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 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
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- 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.
- 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.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened and cheese is melted.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over them. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Plate the cooked rice and top with the smothered chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a little longer after adding the cheese.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.
- For a healthier version, swap out the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat milk.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg