Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines simple ingredients to deliver big, satisfying flavor. The seasoned chicken is seared to perfection, the rice is cooked until tender in savory broth, and everything is tied together with a luscious, cheesy sauce. It’s comforting, filling, and family-friendly. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 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

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season 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 chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

2. Cook the Rice:
   In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens.

4. Combine Everything:
   Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the chicken, cover, and simmer on low for 10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and tender.

5. Serve:
   Spoon rice onto plates, top with smothered chicken and sauce, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or steamed broccoli for added texture and nutrition.

• Use different cheese: Swap cheddar and Parmesan with mozzarella, Swiss, or gouda for a new flavor profile.

• Try dark meat: Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, more flavorful result.

• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a kick.

• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating also works—heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

FAQs

1. What kind of rice works best for this recipe?

Long-grain white rice is recommended for its fluffy texture, but jasmine or basmati rice are also great alternatives.

2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use rotisserie or leftover chicken. Just skip the searing step and add the chicken to the sauce to heat through.

3. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store separately from the rice. Reheat and combine when ready to serve.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy in the sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

6. Is this dish spicy?

No, the recipe is mild. You can add heat with cayenne pepper or hot sauce if desired.

7. What can I use instead of whole milk?

You can substitute with 2% milk, half-and-half, or a plant-based alternative like unsweetened almond milk, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.

8. Do I need to cover the chicken while simmering in the sauce?

Yes, covering helps the chicken cook evenly and stay moist while it absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure your skillet is large enough to accommodate everything, or cook in batches.

10. What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of broth or milk and stir until you reach the desired consistency.

Conclusion

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a delicious, easy-to-make comfort food that’s packed with flavor and texture. With tender chicken, rich cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked rice, it’s a satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a cozy dinner for two, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

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