Name: Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 2 tablespoon Olive Oil; 2 tablespoon Unsalted Butter; ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour; 2 cups Whole Milk; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika; 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice; 2 cups Chicken Broth; Salt to taste; ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese; ½ cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese; 2 tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped

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Introduction

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for any night of the week. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce served over fluffy rice. This hearty meal brings warmth and satisfaction to your table.

The image shows a white plate filled with fluffy white rice forming the base layer, topped with chunks of golden-brown chicken coated in a creamy, light orange sauce with a smooth texture. Small green parsley leaves are scattered on top, adding a fresh contrast of color. The sauce looks rich and thick, covering the chicken pieces well, and the dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add rice, stir, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute. Gradually add milk and chicken broth while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Add Parmesan and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Return the seared chicken to the skillet and pour the creamy sauce over it. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
Step 6: Serve the creamy smothered chicken over a bed of rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with plant-based milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Use gluten-free flour to make the sauce suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Add cooked peas or carrots to the sauce for extra nutrition and color.
Try swapping chicken breasts with mushrooms or cauliflower for a vegetarian version.
Adjust sauce thickness by adding more milk or broth if it becomes too thick.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Pepper Jack for unique flavors.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture.

How to Serve

A white plate filled with a base layer of fluffy white rice, topped with a thick creamy orange sauce that covers medium chunks of tender chicken. The chicken pieces are lightly browned on the edges, adding texture and depth to the sauce. Small green herbs are sprinkled across the sauce, adding a fresh touch of color. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?

Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and pale pink with no dark spots or odors. Even thickness helps the chicken cook evenly without drying out.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator after the dish has cooled completely. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days while maintaining creamy texture.

Can I freeze Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice?

Yes, cool the dish completely and transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding liquid if the sauce has thickened too much.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?

Simply stir in a little extra chicken broth or milk over low heat, stirring until you reach the desired creamy consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?

This dish can be adapted for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian diets by swapping ingredients such as milk, flour, broth, and protein as needed.

How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest method is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. Alternatively, cut into the thickest part to ensure juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.