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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food—tender pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a cheesy, garlic-thyme cream sauce and served over fluffy white rice. This cozy, one-pan dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, delivering rich, satisfying flavor in every bite.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop, One-Pan
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth (for rice)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (for sauce)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season and sear chicken: Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  2. Cook the rice: In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth and 1/2 tsp salt to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk and 1/2 cup broth, whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar, and Parmesan. Cook until thick and creamy.
  4. Smother the chicken: Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over the top, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked.
  5. Serve: Plate the rice, top with chicken and sauce, and garnish with chopped parsley.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
  • Add mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Swap cheeses to customize the flavor (Gruyère, mozzarella, etc.).
  • Use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter sauce.
  • To freeze: store sauce and chicken without rice for best results.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/creamy-smothered-chicken-and-rice/