Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice (Print-Friendly Version)
Juicy chicken in a rich, cheesy sauce, paired with fluffy rice for a classic Southern-style comfort meal.
# What You’ll Need to Make This:
→ For the Chicken
01 -
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
04 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 -
Salt, to taste
06 -
Black pepper, to taste
07 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
→ For the Rice
08 -
1 cup long-grain white rice
09 -
2 cups chicken broth
10 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
→ For the Creamy Sauce
11 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
12 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
13 -
1 1/2 cups whole milk
14 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
15 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
16 -
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
17 -
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
18 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
19 -
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# How to Prepare:
01 -
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the browned chicken to a plate and set aside.
02 -
Bring chicken broth and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and keep covered.
03 -
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the roux turns lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring a smooth consistency. Add garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan. Stir continuously for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cheese has melted.
04 -
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet with the sauce, spooning the creamy mixture over each piece. Cover the pan and let simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
05 -
Spoon the cooked rice onto individual plates, top with the chicken and generous amounts of sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Browning the chicken at medium-high heat develops a deeper, richer flavor and locks in moisture.