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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a one-pan, comforting dinner featuring juicy pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is packed with smoky paprika, garlic, and thyme. Served with fluffy rice, it's an easy, flavorful meal your whole family will love.

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken:

    • 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

  • For the Rice:

    • 1 cup long-grain white rice
    • 2 cups chicken broth
    • ½ teaspoon salt

  • For the Sauce:

    • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    • 1½ cups whole milk
    • ½ cup chicken broth
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    • ¼ teaspoon thyme
    • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside.

  2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add rice, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add milk and chicken broth, stirring until the sauce thickens. Add garlic powder, thyme, cheddar, and Parmesan, stirring until smooth.

  4. Smother the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, and cover. Simmer on low for about 10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

  5. Serve: Plate the rice, top with chicken, and drizzle with extra sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Notes

  • Variations:

    • Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier option.
    • Add Vegetables: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas to the sauce.
    • Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat.

  • Storage/Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken and sauce in a skillet with a splash of milk or broth. Rice can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with broth.

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/creamy-smothered-chicken-and-rice/