Best Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Smothered chicken and rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it brings together simple ingredients, making it great for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

How to Make Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

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
• 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
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. 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 the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Rice:

1. In a separate saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil.
2. Add rice, reduce heat to low, and cover. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
3. Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking until smooth and thickened.
4. 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:

1. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top.
2. Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of rice, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

How to Serve Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

Best Smothered Chicken and Rice is perfect for a cozy dinner. Serve it warm straight from the skillet for a rustic touch. You can add a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for added freshness and color.

How to Store Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving again.

Tips to Make Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours before cooking.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices.
• You can use brown rice instead of white rice; just increase the cooking time as needed.

Variation

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots to the creamy sauce for extra nutrition. Also, try using different types of cheese for a twist in flavor.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken; however, cooking times will vary. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).

Q2: Can this recipe be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. When ready to eat, simply cook the rice and reheat everything together.

Q3: Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour when making the roux for the sauce.