Go Back

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

A comforting meal featuring tender chicken and creamy sauce over fluffy rice, perfect for family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 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 (for garnish)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
Make the Sauce
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
Combine and Serve
  1. 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.
  2. Plate the cooked rice and top with the smothered chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like peas or spinach, to the sauce for extra nutrition. Use low-fat milk if you want a lighter version of the sauce. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.