Description
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a rich, comforting Southern-inspired dish featuring seasoned chicken in a cheesy, velvety sauce served over fluffy 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 (divided)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for sauce)
- ¼ teaspoon thyme
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken 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 per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In a saucepan, bring 2 cups chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually add milk and ½ cup chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
- Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it. Cover and simmer on low for 10 minutes until fully cooked.
- Plate the rice, top with smothered chicken and sauce, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
- Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Use mozzarella or Gouda for a cheesy twist.
- Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Use coconut milk and dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
