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Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

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A comforting one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken and flavorful rice cooked in a creamy, cheesy sauce.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 fresh parsley (for garnish) – finely chopped
  • 1 1/2 tsp powdered garlic
  • 1/4 tsp thyme
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed into 2 tbsp water)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or 1 cup milk + 1/2 cup cream or unsweetened plant milk)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
  2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter foams.
  3. Add the chicken and sear without moving it until a golden crust forms, about 4–5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  4. Keep the skillet over medium heat. Add the powdered garlic, thyme, and another pinch of smoked paprika. Stir constantly for about 1 minute.
  5. Sprinkle the flour over the spiced fat and whisk for about 30 seconds.
  6. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a gentle simmer and let thicken for 1–2 minutes.
  7. Stir in the rice, season with salt and pepper, and spread in an even layer.
  8. Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove the lid, reduce heat to very low, and stir in the milk, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted into a smooth sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve straight from the pan.

Notes

For lower sodium, use low-sodium broth and adjust salt to taste. Adjust cooking time for different rice types and sizes.

Find it online: https://www.wholesomeeasy.com/creamy-smothered-chicken-and-rice/