Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice 

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting, one-skillet dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce, all served over fluffy rice. This Southern-inspired meal is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its simplicity and hearty flavors make it a family favorite.

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 Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1½ cups whole milk

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.

   • Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Rice:

   • In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and salt to a boil.

   • Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.

   • Fluff with a fork and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce:

   • In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.

   • Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.

   • Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.

   • Stir in garlic powder, dried thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.

   • Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and the cheese is melted.

4. Combine Everything:

   • Return the seared chicken to the skillet.

   • Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken.

   • Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

5. Serve:

   • Plate the cooked rice.

   • Top with the smothered chicken and sauce.

   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

 Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal

• Protein: ~35g

• Carbohydrates: ~35g

• Fat: ~20g

• Fiber: ~2g