Description
This hearty and comforting Smothered Chicken and Rice combines tender, flavorful chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce over a bed of fluffy rice. A family-friendly dish that brings together bold spices and cheesy goodness for the ultimate meal.
Ingredients
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For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Rice:
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1 cup long-grain white rice
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2 cups chicken broth
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1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Creamy Sauce:
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 1/2 cups whole milk
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon thyme
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken:
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Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Cook the Rice:
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In a separate saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, and cover. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
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Make the Creamy Sauce:
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In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
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Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking until smooth and thickened.
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Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is creamy and the cheese is fully melted.
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Combine the Chicken and Rice:
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Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top.
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Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of rice, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
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Notes
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You can substitute the chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor.
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For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk or replace the cream with a plant-based alternative.
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You can add vegetables like peas or spinach to the rice for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American