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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the kind of cozy, satisfying meal everyone loves. Tender, well-seasoned chicken breasts are pan-seared until golden, then smothered in a rich, cheesy cream sauce and served over fluffy, seasoned rice. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners or relaxed family meals.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Creamy Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1½ cups whole milk

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Season and Cook the Chicken

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 per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook 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, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy 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. Slowly add the 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 creamy.

4. Smother the Chicken

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

5. Serve

Serve the smothered chicken over the cooked rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy warm.

Notes

  • Even cooking: Pound chicken breasts slightly so they cook evenly.

  • Extra flavor: Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the sauce.

  • Thicker sauce: Simmer a few extra minutes or add a little more cheese.

  • Rice swap: Brown rice works well, but increase cooking time to about 40 minutes.