Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines a perfectly seasoned chicken breast, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that everyone will crave. The best part? It’s a one-skillet meal, so clean-up is minimal. It’s quick, easy, and sure to impress at any dinner table.

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
1½ cups whole milk
½ cup chicken broth
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon thyme
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside.
Cook the Rice: Bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes. Fluff the rice and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Add milk and chicken broth, whisking until thickened. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, and cheeses until smooth.
Smother the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the chicken, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F.
Serve: Plate the rice, top with chicken, and drizzle with sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Different Proteins: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms into the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella or gouda in place of cheddar and Parmesan for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and are even more forgiving if slightly overcooked.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and sauce separately and store in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

3. What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Add sautéed spinach, peas, or mushrooms to the sauce or serve it with a side of roasted vegetables.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce for a spicy kick.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Try mozzarella or gouda for a different texture and flavor.

7. Can I use instant rice instead of regular rice?

Regular long-grain rice is recommended for the best texture, but instant rice can work as a quicker alternative.

8. Can I make this dish in the oven instead of the stove?

Yes, after searing the chicken and making the sauce, you can transfer the dish to the oven and bake at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes.

9. How do I prevent the rice from getting too sticky?

Use a 1:2 ratio of rice to chicken broth, and avoid stirring the rice while it’s cooking.

10. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce (separate from the rice) for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a cozy, comforting meal that’s simple to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

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This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food—juicy, seasoned chicken over fluffy rice, drenched in a rich, cheesy cream sauce. Made in just one skillet, this easy dinner recipe is packed with bold flavors and perfect for busy weeknights.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 30min
Total Time: 45min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside.
Cook the Rice:
- In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil.
- Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking until thickened.
- Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Smother the Chicken:
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over the top.
- Cover and let simmer for 10 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve:
- Plate the rice, top with the smothered chicken, and drizzle with extra sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

Alternative Proteins: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Add-Ins: Mix in spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar and Parmesan with mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor.
Make-Ahead: Prep the chicken and sauce separately, then reheat before serving.