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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice That Will Warm Your Heart

This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender chicken in a cheesy sauce over fluffy rice, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Breasts Main protein source; bone-in for extra flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with vegetable oil.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to preference.
For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can use margarine as a substitute.
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour works well as a substitute.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Almond or soy milk can be substituted.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for a bolder flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Finely chopped fresh onion can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Can substitute with sweet paprika.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme Fresh thyme is a great alternative.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Sharp cheddar for more pronounced taste.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for dairy-free.
For the Rice
  • 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice Brown rice can add health benefits.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Consider low-sodium for a healthier option.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Chives or green onions can be used.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Season chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Sear for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil over high heat. Add salt, stir in rice, and return to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk and some chicken broth, whisk until smooth. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
  4. Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan. Cook over low heat until cheese is melted and the sauce is thick.
  5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return seared chicken to the skillet and coat in sauce. Simmer with the lid on for 10 minutes, ensuring chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  6. Serve: Fluff rice and plate it. Top with chicken and creamy sauce. Garnish with parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Season generously and don’t rush the rice for best results. Add vegetables during the sauce cooking phase for extra nutrition and color.

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