Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, rich creamy sauce, and fluffy rice. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. This recipe is simple, yet it delivers a flavor-packed meal that feels special. Plus, it requires just a few ingredients and can be whipped up in less than an hour!

How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Ingredients:

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
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups whole milk
½ cup chicken broth
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon thyme
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of 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. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Cook the Rice: In a separate pot, combine the rice, chicken broth, and salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden. Gradually add the whole milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the cheese has melted, about 5 minutes.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the creamy sauce, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer together for 3-5 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb some of the sauce. Serve the creamy smothered chicken over the cooked rice, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Serve this dish warm, placing the creamy smothered chicken on a bed of fluffy rice. You can add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The creamy sauce also makes it lovely with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up every bit of deliciousness.

How to Store Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore the creaminess.

Tips to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

To make it extra creamy, you can add more cheese to the sauce.
If you want to add some vegetables, consider adding spinach or broccoli while making the sauce.
Make sure to fully cook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.

Variation

For a healthier option, you can use brown rice instead of white rice. It may need a bit more liquid and a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly. Additionally, you could use turkey instead of chicken for a leaner protein choice.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat and serve when ready.

What can I substitute for the cheeses?

You can use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.