Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
A comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a rich creamy sauce served over fluffy rice, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts lean and tender
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder adds aromatic flavor
- 1 teaspoon onion powder enhances overall taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika provides subtle smokiness
- Salt and black pepper to taste for seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
For the Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice fluffy texture
- 2 cups chicken broth adds moisture and flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon salt for seasoning
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter rich flavor
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour for thickening
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk adds creaminess
- 1/2 cup chicken broth enhances flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder boosts seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme adds herbal note
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese melts into creaminess
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds depth of flavor
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden-brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, reserving the drippings.
- In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat, then whisk in all-purpose flour until it forms a smooth paste.
- Gradually add whole milk and chicken broth to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps, until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, allowing it to simmer in the creamy sauce for about 5 minutes.
Cooking the Rice
- In a medium saucepan, combine long-grain white rice, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat. Cook until rice is tender and fluffy.
Serving
- Divide the rice onto individual plates and top with the creamy chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For best results, let the chicken marinate in seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking. Adjust sauce consistency with more milk if needed. Use a meat thermometer for proper chicken doneness.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 610kcalCarbohydrates: 53gProtein: 39gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 13gSodium: 750mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3g
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