Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
A comforting dish that combines tender chicken breasts with fluffy rice smothered in a rich and cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners, easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Ensure fully cooked
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking chicken
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 To make roux
- 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
For garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish before serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
Cooking Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Cooking Rice
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the rice and ½ teaspoon of salt.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat.
Making Creamy Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add whole milk and chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Stir in garlic powder and thyme.
- Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
Finishing Dish
- Stir shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted and smooth.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling
- Return cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the rice.
- Pour creamy cheese sauce over chicken and rice.
- Cover and cook on low for an additional 5 minutes.
Serving
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Ensure chicken is fully cooked (165°F/75°C). Don't skip the resting time after cooking. Customize cheese types or add vegetables for variations.