Description
This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is rich, comforting, and full of flavor. Easy to make and perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions!
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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 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
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
4. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
5. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth to create a smooth sauce.
6. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens and cheese is melted.
7. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Cover and simmer on low for 10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
8. Plate rice, top with smothered chicken and sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Browning the chicken is essential for locking in moisture and developing flavor—use medium-high heat for best results.
This dish is perfect for meal prep; the sauce reheats beautifully.
You can substitute brown rice or serve with mashed potatoes if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with rice
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 120mg