Description
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken breasts in a rich, cheesy sauce made with cheddar, Parmesan, garlic, and thyme. Served over fluffy rice, this dish is quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special family meal.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon thyme
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season and Sear Chicken: Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside.
- Cook Rice: Bring chicken broth and salt to a boil in a saucepan. Add rice, reduce to low, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes. Fluff and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking until the sauce thickens. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar, and Parmesan.
- Smother the Chicken: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, and simmer for 10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Plate the rice, top with the smothered chicken, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Add Vegetables: Include mushrooms, spinach, or peas in the sauce for extra flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to bring heat to the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop, Searing, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
