Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
A comforting dish featuring tender chicken and creamy rice with rich cheese, perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
Chicken and seasonings
- 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For cooking the chicken
Creamy Sauce and Rice
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter For making the roux
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour For thickening the sauce
- 2 cups Whole Milk To create the creamy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice Select a long-grain variety
- 2 cups Chicken Broth Add for cooking rice and flavor
Cheese and Garnish
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese For flavor
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Topping for creaminess
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped For garnish
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper evenly.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for a few minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter.
- Whisk in the all-purpose flour to make a roux and cook for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, stirring until well mixed.
Cooking the Rice
- Add the long-grain white rice to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce.
- Pour in the chicken broth and mix well.
- Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet.
- Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently until the rice is tender and creamy.
Finishing Touches
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Let the cheese melt before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Garnish generously with parsley for added color and flavor. Allow leftover dish to cool before storing in airtight container.