Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. It’s easy to make and packed with flavors that everyone loves. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with creamy sauce and fluffy rice, creating a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup for you!

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
1/2 teaspoon salt
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
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Season 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. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Plate the cooked rice and top with the smothered chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

This delicious dish can be served on its own or paired with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The creamy sauce makes it perfect for soaking into the rice, but you can also enjoy it with crusty bread to mop up every last bit.

How to Store Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much while storing.

Tips to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Make sure to season the chicken well for the best flavor.
Use fresh herbs if possible for better taste.
You can adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less milk based on your preference.
To save time, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken.

Variation

For a different twist, you can add veggies such as broccoli or spinach into the creamy sauce. Just sauté them along with the chicken for a complete meal. You can also substitute the cheeses with your favorites or even add some spice with a pinch of cayenne pepper.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. Make sure to adjust the cooking time and the amount of chicken broth accordingly.

2. Is this dish freezable?

Yes, you can freeze it. Just let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers. It’s best used within three months.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be aware that the sauce may thicken in the fridge, so adding a bit of milk during reheating can help restore the creamy texture.