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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

A one-pan dish that combines golden chicken breasts with creamy, cheesy sauce over fluffy rice, making it a swift and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Make sure they are of even thickness for even cooking.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the chicken.
For the Rice
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth Can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • ½ teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Helps create a rich flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour To thicken the sauce.
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk Use a lower fat milk if desired.
  • ½ cup chicken broth For added flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon thyme
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rub the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
  2. Remove them from the skillet and let rest.
Preparing the Rice
  1. In a separate pot, combine rice, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes.
  2. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Making the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Gradually add whole milk and chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
  4. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Allow it to thicken for about 5 minutes.
Bringing it All Together
  1. Return the chicken to the skillet, covering it with the creamy sauce.
  2. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes.
  3. Serve the creamy smothered chicken over the rice, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

For storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep it creamy. Don't skip the flavorful seasonings; they make all the difference!