Description
This hearty and comforting dish features tender, seasoned chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, served over fluffy rice. The combination of smoked paprika, garlic, and a rich, cheesy sauce makes this meal a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
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 thyme
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly, creating a roux.
- Slowly add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
- Add the garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Combine the Chicken and Rice:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to coat it well.
- Serve the chicken over the cooked rice, spooning more of the creamy sauce on top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For extra creaminess, you can add more cheese or a little bit of heavy cream to the sauce.
- You can use boneless, skinless thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier result.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-searing / Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Creamy smothered chicken, creamy chicken and rice, cheesy chicken, smothered chicken, chicken rice casserole, comfort food, creamy chicken breast