Ever dreamed of creamy chicken goodness that practically cooks itself?

Get ready to indulge in Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – the ultimate one-pan comfort dish that’s bound to make your taste buds dance. This recipe is all about convenience, flavors, and that luscious creamy sauce that you’ll want to slather over everything. Best of all, it’s quick to whip up and uses simple ingredients that are likely hanging out in your kitchen right now.

Why make this recipe

Why should you make this delightful meal? For starters, it’s a family-friendly win! The creamy sauce smothers the juicy chicken and fluffy rice, making every bite a reason to smile. Plus, cleanup is a breeze – we’re talking one-pan magic here. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good meal that doesn’t break the bank?

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

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

Ready to dive in? Let’s get to it!

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.
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.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux; cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden. Gradually add 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 thickens and the cheese melts, about 5 minutes.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce, spooning it over the chicken. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve the creamy smothered chicken over the cooked rice, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

How to make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice (Overview)

Making this dish is super simple! Start by searing your perfectly seasoned chicken till it’s golden brown and cooked through. While that’s happening, get your rice simmering away like a cozy blanket of comfort. Next comes the creamy sauce – don’t forget to whisk until you’re vibrant with cheesy goodness. Finally, combine all that scrumptiousness together for the ultimate dinner win! Oh, and pro tip: don’t skip the resting phase for the chicken; it keeps it juicy!

How to serve Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Plating this dish is a feast for the eyes! Serve the creamy chicken on a bed of fluffy rice, and let that rich sauce drizzle down for maximum visual impact. Think vibrant green parsley sprinkled on top, against the backdrop of golden chicken and creamy sauce. Pair it with some roasted veggies or a crunchy salad for a pop of color and texture. The aroma? Trust me, it’s enough to have everyone at the table drooling! 😋

How to store Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Leftover creamy chicken life is also delicious! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can freeze them too – just shield them from freezer burn using a good quality container. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Easy peasy!

Tips to make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Timing is key! Start your rice just after placing the chicken in the skillet to save time.
Swap out the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a veggie twist.
If you want a little extra flair, add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce!
Feeling fancy? A splash of white wine in the sauce can take it up a notch.
Always taste your sauce before serving – adjust the seasonings to your liking!

Variation

Want to switch it up? Substitute the chicken for some hearty mushroom or vegetable protein for a vegan version! You can also play with the cheeses: try pepper jack for a kick or go Italian with some mozzarella. Craving something different? Why not toss in some broccoli to the rice for added color and nutrition!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely! Just note that it will require a longer cooking time and a bit more liquid.

What can I use if I don’t have chicken broth?
Vegetable broth works perfectly and keeps it plant-based.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
For sure! Just make sure it’s cooled completely before placing it in the freezer.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!