Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ For the Rice

07 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
08 - 2 cups chicken broth
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ For the Creamy Sauce

10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
11 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
12 - 1 1/2 cups whole milk
13 - 1/2 cup chicken broth
14 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
15 - 1/4 teaspoon thyme
16 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
17 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
18 - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - 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.
02 - 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 rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
03 - 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. Gradually add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cheese is melted.
04 - Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
05 - Plate the cooked rice and top with the smothered chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor to the dish, so don't skip this step. Use medium-high heat for a golden crust that locks in moisture.
02 - For extra flavor, you can add sautéed mushrooms or onions to the sauce.

Back