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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 63 reviews

A comforting and creamy smothered chicken with tender white rice, smothered in a rich cheese sauce infused with garlic and herbs. Perfect for a satisfying dinner that combines juicy seared chicken breasts with a smooth, cheesy gravy and fluffy rice.

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
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon thyme
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season and Sear the Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear each side for 4-5 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Stir in the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and keep aside.
  3. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce: Using the same skillet from the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it turns lightly golden, creating a roux. Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, forming a smooth sauce. Add garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes while stirring until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts fully.
  4. Simmer the Chicken in Sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the creamy cheese sauce over each piece. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 10 minutes to ensure the chicken cooks through and becomes tender while absorbing the sauce flavors.
  5. Serve: Plate the fluffy cooked rice, then place the smothered chicken breasts on top. Spoon any extra sauce over the dish and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot immediately for a rich and comforting meal.

Notes

  • Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Use freshly grated cheeses for best melting and flavor.
  • For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with 2% milk or use a low-fat cheese alternative.
  • Leftover smothered chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • To add extra flavor, consider sautéing onions or mushrooms before adding the sauce.

Keywords: creamy chicken, smothered chicken, chicken and rice, cheesy chicken recipe, comfort food, stovetop chicken, easy dinner

Find it online: https://zarameals.com/creamy-smothered-chicken-and-rice-recipe/