Best Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

There’s Nothing Like Comfort Food

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a dish like smothered chicken and rice. Maybe it’s the delightful blend of flavors or the creamy sauce that brings everything together. This recipe is a classic that transitions beautifully from weeknight dinners to special Sunday meals. Perfectly seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and a decadent sauce come together in a way that will leave you wanting more. I first stumbled upon this recipe on a busy weeknight and was amazed by how quickly it came together without skimping on taste. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this recipe stand out in a sea of dinner ideas? For starters, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a casual gathering, this dish fits perfectly. It’s not just delicious; it’s also budget-friendly and quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight meals. Kids adore it, and let’s be honest — adults do too! The creamy sauce takes the flavor quotient to a whole new level, enveloping each bite in rich goodness.

“This smothered chicken and rice recipe is my go-to for busy nights. The whole family loves it, and it’s so easy to make!” — A happy home cook

Your Easy Cooking Guide

You’ll find that making smothered chicken and rice is a straightforward process. First, we’ll season the chicken, then cook it until golden brown. Next, we’ll prepare fluffy rice and create a creamy sauce that’ll elevate the entire dish. Finally, we’ll bring it all together for a satisfying meal. In just a few steps, you’ll be enjoying a dish that’s as comforting as a hug on a cold day.

Gather Your Ingredients

To get started, here’s everything you’ll need for this comforting smothered chicken and rice recipe:

• 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
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (additional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (additional)
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Feel free to substitute with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free alternative if allergies are a concern!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Cook the rice in a separate saucepan by bringing 2 cups of chicken broth and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil. Add the rice, lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
4. Make the creamy sauce by returning to the same skillet used for the chicken. Melt butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux. Gradually add whole milk and the remaining chicken broth. Whisk until it’s smooth and thickened before stirring in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Combine the chicken with the sauce by placing the chicken back in the skillet. Spoon the creamy mixture over the top.
6. Serve the chicken and sauce over the fluffy rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Your Dish

Wondering about the best way to serve this delicious smothered chicken and rice? Simply present the chicken atop a generous scoop of rice, ensuring those rich, creamy drizzles artfully cover everything. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. If you want to elevate your presentation, garnish with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of crunchy fried onions on top.

Storage Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Allow the smothered chicken and rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if it seems too thick. If you’d like to store it longer, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Helpful Hints

To ensure this dish shines every time, here are some pro tips:

• Make sure the chicken is patted dry before seasoning to achieve that coveted golden crust.
• If you’re pressed for time, you can use precooked rotisserie chicken. Just skip the initial skillet cooking step; add the chicken directly into the sauce.
• Experiment with different spices to change up the flavor; cayenne pepper can add a lovely kick!

Creative Twists

Feel like experimenting? Here are a few fun variations you can try:

• Herb Swaps: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for an aromatic boost.
• Adding Veggies: Incorporate broccoli or bell peppers for a colorful crunch.
• Spicy Version: For a kick, stir in jalapeños or sriracha into your creamy sauce.

Your Questions Answered

How long does this dish take to prepare?
From start to finish, it takes about 45 minutes, making it a quick option for any busy weeknight.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

How should I store leftovers?
Allow them to cool, then keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. Always reheat thoroughly before serving.

By following these steps, you’ll create a satisfying and flavorful smothered chicken and rice dinner that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

Smothered Chicken and Rice

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A comforting dish of perfectly seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (additional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (additional)
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In a separate saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil. Add the rice, lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
4. For the creamy sauce, return to the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, and whisk in the flour for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux. Gradually add whole milk and remaining chicken broth, whisking until smooth and thickened. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Combine the chicken with the sauce in the skillet, spooning the creamy mixture over the top.
6. Serve the chicken and sauce over the fluffy rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Substitute other cheeses like Monterey Jack or dairy-free alternatives as needed. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: chicken, rice, comfort food, easy dinner, creamy sauce