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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Indulge in this creamy, one-pan dish that combines juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious sauce for a family-friendly dinner that’s quick and easy to make.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces 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
  • 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)

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken
  1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
  4. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Cook the Rice
  1. In a separate pot, combine the rice, chicken broth, and salt.
  2. 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.
  3. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce
  1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour to form a roux; cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
  3. Gradually add whole milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  4. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts, about 5 minutes.
Combine and Serve
  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce, spooning it over the chicken.
  2. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Serve the creamy smothered chicken over the cooked rice, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

Leftover creamy chicken life is delicious! Store 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 quality container. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.