Best Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe for a Cozy Dinner

Discover the Best Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe for a Cozy Dinner, combining tender chicken and creamy sauce for a comforting meal.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Resting Time 10

Total Time 55

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

For the Seasoning

1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for a more vibrant flavor.
1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh chopped onions can be substituted.
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used for a milder flavor.

For Cooking

2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be replaced with vegetable oil if needed.
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Margarine can be used as an alternative.

For the Rice

1 cup Long-Grain White Rice Instant rice can be a quick option but check cooking times.
2 cups Chicken Broth Opt for homemade or low-sodium for health.

For the Cream Sauce

1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour blends can be used for dietary restrictions.
2 cups Whole Milk Almond milk or non-dairy alternatives can be used.
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano is a flavorful swap.
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Try sharp cheddar or a mix for complexity.

For Garnish

1 teaspoon Thyme Italian seasoning can serve as a substitute.
2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Chives can be used as an alternative.

Equipment

Large Skillet
Medium saucepan

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil with a pinch of salt. Stir in rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff and set aside.
Melt unsalted butter in the skillet, then whisk in flour to form a roux. Pour in milk and chicken broth while whisking until smooth. Add garlic powder, thyme, cheddar, and parmesan, cooking until thickened.
Return chicken to skillet, cover, and simmer for another 10 minutes to meld flavors and ensure it is cooked through.
To serve, place rice on each plate, top with smothered chicken and sauce, garnish with parsley, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 32gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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