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Recipe 7553d3a681

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

This cozy recipe for Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish, perfect for a family meal or small gathering with friends. It's quick, creamy, and full of flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 pieces boneless (skinless chicken breasts Organic or free-range is preferred.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Flavor enhancer.
  • 1 tsp onion powder Adds depth.
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika For additional flavor and color.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Can substitute butter.
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice Basmati or jasmine can be used for extra flavor.
  • 2 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
  • ½ tsp salt Adjust based on broth's saltiness.
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter Adds creaminess.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour To thicken the creamy sauce.
  • cups whole milk Can substitute almond milk.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese For rich flavor.
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese Can add more if desired.
  • ¼ tsp dried thyme For herbal undertone.
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish) Adds freshness.

Instructions
 

Searing the Chicken

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Cook each breast for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Remove chicken and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

Cooking the Rice

  • In the same skillet, add 1 cup of long-grain white rice and stir to soak up flavors.
  • Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and add ½ teaspoon of salt.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 15-18 minutes until rice is tender.

Making the Creamy Sauce

  • Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the same skillet over medium heat.
  • Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour for about a minute.
  • Slowly pour in 1½ cups of whole milk while whisking to prevent clumps.
  • Add ½ cup of chicken broth, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon dried thyme. Stir until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

Smothering the Chicken

  • Lower the heat and return the chicken to the skillet.
  • Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken and sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top.
  • Cover for a few minutes to let the cheese melt.

Serving

  • Serve the dish by placing a scoop of rice on a plate, topped with chicken and spooning creamy sauce over it.
  • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

For best results, monitor the heat during cooking and be cautious not to overcrowd the pan. This recipe is very versatile, feel free to add veggies as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gSodium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g
Keyword Chicken and Rice, Comfort Food, Creamy Chicken, Easy Dinner, Family Meal
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