Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy sauce served over fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Southern

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts The main protein source, known for its tenderness.
2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for searing chicken; substituting with butter adds a richer flavor.

For the Rice

1 cup Long-Grain White Rice Provides a fluffy base; brown rice can be used but may require a longer cooking time.
2 cups Chicken Broth Adds depth of flavor; vegetable broth is a great non-meat substitute.

For the Sauce

4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Essential for making a creamy roux; salted butter can slightly alter the flavor.
1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Thickens the sauce effortlessly; opt for gluten-free flour if needed.
2 cups Whole Milk Contributes to the creaminess; consider non-dairy milk for a lactose-free option.
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Infuses savory depth; feel free to swap for fresh minced garlic if desired.
1 teaspoon Onion Powder Elevates flavor; fresh onions work but will take longer to cook.
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adds smoky depth; regular paprika can replace it but will lack that distinctive flavor.
1 teaspoon Thyme Provides herbal notes; dried thyme can stand in for fresh if necessary.

For the Cheesy Finish

1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Brings creaminess to the sauce; use dairy-free cheese for a vegan twist.
1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Offers a nutty flavor; nutritional yeast can substitute for a dairy-free option.

For the Garnish

2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Adds a pop of color and brightness; it’s optional but delightful as a finishing touch.

Equipment

Skillet
Cooking Pot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by seasoning the boneless skinless chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, then remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, bring chicken broth to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Stir in long-grain white rice, cover the skillet, and reduce heat to low. Let the rice simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork just before serving.
Using the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden. Gradually add whole milk and a bit more chicken broth, whisking constantly until the sauce is smooth. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until thickened.
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the creamy sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors and finish cooking. Check for internal temperature to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
To serve your Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice, place a generous portion of rice on each plate, then top with the smothered chicken and plenty of creamy sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a touch of brightness, and enjoy this comforting dish with your family!

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to ensure it remains juicy and tender when served. Adjust sauce consistency as needed.

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