Description
A comforting and creamy dish featuring perfectly seasoned chicken breasts smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce served over fluffy rice. This one-pan meal is a family favorite that’s simple to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 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
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ 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 Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Cook the Rice: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the rice and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cover and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat.
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Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the whole milk and chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in the garlic powder and thyme. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
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Finish the Dish: Stir the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Assemble: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the rice. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the chicken and rice. Cover and cook on low for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Add a vegetable like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to make it a complete meal.
- For a bit of heat, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Chicken, Comfort Food, One-pan Meals
- Method: Stovetop, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: creamy chicken, cheesy chicken, rice, comfort food, one-pan meal, smothered chicken