Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is exactly what you need. Tender chicken breasts smothered in a luscious, cheesy sauce paired perfectly with fluffy, flavorful rice create a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings together simple pantry staples in the most delicious way. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, the Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice will quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential for making the Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice just right. Each one adds flavor, richness, or texture that transforms this dish from ordinary to irresistible.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The foundation of the dish, chosen for their tenderness and ability to soak up those creamy flavors.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Added to both the chicken and sauce, these spices enhance the depth of flavor.
- Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness that perfectly compliments the creamy sauce.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken to golden perfection, locking in juices.
- Long-grain white rice: Fluffy and light, it acts as the perfect bed for the rich chicken and sauce.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth to both the rice and the sauce.
- Unsalted butter and all-purpose flour: The classic duo for crafting a smooth, velvety roux in the creamy sauce.
- Whole milk: Contributes to the sauce’s silky texture and richness.
- Cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese: These cheeses melt into the sauce creating a beautiful balance of gooey, sharp, and nutty flavors.
- Fresh parsley: A bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish with a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning layer forms the flavor base that will elevate every bite. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust. This step is crucial for locking in the juices and adding a tantalizing texture. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside temporarily.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the chicken rests, it’s time to cook the rice. Bring chicken broth and a pinch of salt to a boil in a medium saucepan, then add the long-grain white rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes. The rice will absorb the broth, infusing every grain with savory goodness. Once tender, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside, ready to serve as a fluffy bed for your smothered chicken.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Using the same skillet you seared the chicken in will add great flavor to the sauce. Melt unsalted butter over medium heat, then whisk in the all-purpose flour. Stir this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until it turns lightly golden — this forms the roux that will thicken your sauce perfectly. Gradually add the whole milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Then, season the sauce with garlic powder and thyme for that comforting aroma. Stir in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens into a silky, cheesy delight.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and generously spoon the creamy sauce over them. Cover the pan and let everything simmer together on low heat for about 10 minutes. This step allows the chicken to finish cooking fully while soaking in all those rich, cheesy flavors from the sauce. You’ll end up with tender, juicy chicken smothered in a dreamy blanket of sauce that’s begging to be paired with that fluffy rice.
How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley on top of the Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice not only adds a burst of vibrant color but also a hint of herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness. A light sprinkle right before serving makes the dish look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with simple, crisp sides like steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a fresh garden salad provides a lovely balance of texture and freshness. These sides add a nutritious crunch that complements the creamy, tender chicken and rice beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the chicken sliced on a plate with the creamy sauce drizzled artfully over the top, accompanied by a neat mound of rice. You can also spoon the dish into individual ramekins or shallow bowls for a cozy, rustic feel. A final dusting of extra Parmesan cheese and parsley elevates the visual and flavor experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store the chicken and rice together with the sauce to maintain the perfect creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to do so without the fresh parsley garnish. Pack the chicken and rice with sauce tightly in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave on medium power. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce becomes too thick. This will help revive that creamy, luscious texture everyone loves from the original Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and chewier texture. Just note that you’ll need a longer cooking time and possibly more broth to get it tender.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice reheats well, making it a fantastic option for packing lunches or quick dinners during busy weeks.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even mozzarella. Just keep in mind these cheeses melt differently and will slightly alter the flavor profile.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). After simmering in the sauce for 10 minutes, the chicken will be tender and fully cooked through.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives and replace butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine. The sauce will be a bit different but still delicious!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is one of those magic dishes that brings comfort, flavor, and ease to your dinner table all at once. It’s rich and indulgent yet straightforward enough to prepare any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch it become a go-to meal that everyone asks for time and again. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and treat yourself to a plateful of cozy deliciousness!
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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and flavorful Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe featuring tender chicken breasts seared to perfection, served over fluffy long-grain white rice and smothered in a rich, cheesy cream sauce infused with garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice
- 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
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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and salt to a boil. Stir in the long-grain white rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns lightly golden and forms a roux.
- Add Liquids and Cheese: Gradually pour in the whole milk and chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps and create a smooth sauce. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it thickens and the cheese melts completely, stirring frequently.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the creamy cheese sauce over the top of each piece, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken simmer gently in the sauce for 10 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender.
- Serve: Plate the fluffy cooked rice and top with the smothered chicken breasts and extra sauce from the skillet. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use chicken breasts of uniform size to ensure even cooking.
- If whole milk is not available, 2% milk can be substituted, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.
- To add extra flavor, consider sautéing some diced onions or mushrooms in the skillet before making the sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated on the stove or microwave.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with approximately 1 cup cooked rice and sauce
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: smothered chicken, creamy chicken recipe, chicken and rice, cheesy chicken sauce, easy dinner recipes, comfort food
