There’s something so comforting about a warm meal that brings everyone together. This Best Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe has a cozy vibe and hearty taste that feels like a warm hug from the inside. Imagine sitting down to a plate of tender chicken slathered in creamy cheese sauce, all served up over fluffy rice. It’s the perfect dish for a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday dinner. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to whip up, even if you’re just starting in the kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe packs a punch of flavor without too much fuss. It’s a one-skillet wonder that back-to-school nights and chilly evenings just thrive on. The combination of chicken, rice, and a creamy sauce makes you feel right at home. You might be cooking for just yourself or a whole crowd; either way, everyone will ask for seconds. Trust me; you’ll want this smothered goodness in your regular rotation!
How to Make Best Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
First, let’s get our chicken prepped. Season each breast with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. It’s all about layering those flavors. Heat up some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and carefully add the chicken. Cook it for 5-7 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. Once perfectly browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Now, let’s tackle the rice. In a separate saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil, adding a pinch of salt. Stir in the rice, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender. And just like that, you’ll have fluffy rice to soak up all those delicious flavors!
While that’s cooking, let’s make a cheesy sauce. In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Save those tasty bits at the bottom of the pan! Whisk in some flour to create a roux, and gradually add in the milk while whisking until it’s nice and smooth. Stir in your favorite spices and both cheeses until everything is melted and divine.
Time to bring it all together! Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon that heavenly sauce over it. Serve hot over the rice, and voilà! A meal that feels indulgent but is oh-so-easy.
How to Serve Best Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe
Plate it up like a culinary pro! Make a nest of rice on each plate, and add a piece of chicken on top. Drizzle that cheesy sauce generously—don’t be shy! This dish pairs beautifully with a light green salad or some steamed broccoli. A side of buttery corn muffins is also a fan-favorite to soak up that yummy sauce.
How to Store Best Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store any extra chicken and rice in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the microwave or warm it in a skillet until heated through. Easy and delicious!
Tips to Make Best Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Don’t skip seasoning the chicken! It makes all the difference.
- You can switch up the cheeses if you want. Cream cheese adds a nice touch, or you might try adding some pepper jack for a little spice.
- If you’re in a hurry, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. Just add it at the end when you’re mixing everything in the skillet.
Variation (If Any)
Feeling adventurous? Try swapping the white rice for quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a lighter dish. If you want some greens, toss in frozen spinach while making your cheesy sauce, and bam—you’ve got a nutritious twist on this classic comfort food.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Just make sure they’re thoroughly thawed before cooking for the best results.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No worries! Water works in a pinch, but broth adds so much more flavor. If using water, consider adding a bit more seasoning.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything and keep it in the fridge before baking. Just assemble and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
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Best Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting meal with tender chicken slathered in creamy cheese sauce, served over fluffy rice.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season each chicken breast with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
- In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil, add a pinch of salt, stir in rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk while whisking until smooth. Stir in spices and both cheeses until melted.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Serve hot over the rice.
Notes
For extra flavor, don’t skip the seasoning on the chicken. You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: chicken, rice, creamy sauce, comfort food, one-skillet meal
