Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

why make this recipe

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce adds rich flavor to the chicken and rice, making it a family favorite that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and uses common ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

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 :

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.

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how to serve Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Serve this dish hot for the best experience. It goes wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a simple salad for added freshness. The creamy sauce and tender chicken are sure to delight your family and friends.

how to store Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing the portions. Use freezer-safe containers, and it will last for up to 2 months.

tips to make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
• Use low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter version without compromising too much on taste.
• Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or broccoli into the sauce for extra nutrition.

variation

You can customize this recipe by using different types of cheese, like gouda or mozzarella, or adding herbs like rosemary or oregano in the creamy sauce. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning.

FAQs

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but the cooking times will differ. Make sure to follow the package instructions for brown rice.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Then cook the rice the day you plan to serve it.

Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?

A: You can use dairy-free milk and cheese substitutes to make this dish dairy-free. Look for options that work well in cooking, like almond or oat milk.