Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

Best Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

If you’re searching for a deliciously comforting dish that will warm your heart and please your palate, the Best Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe is just what you need. This family-friendly meal combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce, all served on a fluffy bed of rice.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to make this Best Smothered Chicken and Rice dish. First and foremost, it’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. The ingredients are generally pantry staples, which means you won’t have to make a special trip to the grocery store. The creamy sauce is rich and satisfying, and you can easily customize flavors to match your family’s preferences. Moreover, it’s a one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup, which is always a bonus!

How to Make Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

Making this delightful dish involves three main components: juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a comforting creamy sauce. Let’s break down the ingredients and directions step by step.

Ingredients

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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
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Cook the Rice:

1. In a separate saucepan, bring the chicken broth and salt to a boil.
2. Add the long-grain white rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pan. Allow the rice to simmer for 15-20 minutes or until it is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
3. Fluff the rice with a fork after cooking is complete.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken your sauce.
3. Gradually add the whole milk and chicken broth while whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
4. Stir in the garlic powder, thyme, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese is completely melted.

Combine the Chicken and Rice:

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce generously over the top.
2. Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of rice.
3. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Pro Tips for Success Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

1. Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, select high-quality chicken and fresh herbs.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Monitor the cooking time closely, as overcooking can lead to tough chicken.
3. Add More Veggies: Consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
4. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning or try different spices to create a unique flavor profile.
5. Make it Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in the spice mix a day in advance for deeper flavor.
6. Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook it a bit longer; if you like it thinner, add a splash more milk or broth.

Flavor Variations Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

1. Buffalo Chicken Twist: Add some buffalo sauce into the creamy sauce for a spicy kick that’s great for fans of bold flavors.
2. Mushroom Lover’s Delight: Sauté fresh mushrooms with the chicken for an earthy flavor that complements the creaminess.
3. Herb-Infused: Swap the thyme for dried Italian herbs or fresh rosemary for a completely different aroma and taste.
4. Italian Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes and basil to the sauce to create an Italian-inspired smothered chicken dish.
5. Smoky BBQ: Incorporate your favorite BBQ sauce into the creamy mixture to give the dish a smoky flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

This comforting dish can be enjoyed on its own, but here are a few serving ideas:

• Pair it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added crunch and nutrition.
• Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce.
• For those who love spice, offer red pepper flakes for guests to sprinkle on their plates.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

Sometimes, leftovers are inevitable, and that’s just fine! Here’s how to store or freeze your smothered chicken and rice:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
• Freezer: If you want to freeze the dish, ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then heat gently on the stove or microwave.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|—————-|
| Calories | 470 |
| Protein | 37g |
| Carbohydrates | 43g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 680mg |

FAQ About Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken gives a deeper flavor, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too thin?

The key to a thicker sauce is ensuring you properly cook the roux (flour and butter mixture). Whisk it for 1-2 minutes before adding liquids, and if it still seems thin, let it simmer a little longer until it achieves your desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch, and ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free.

What should I do if I can’t find smoked paprika?

If smoked paprika isn’t available, regular paprika or a combination of sweet paprika and a little cumin can bring a nice flavor. While it won’t have the same smokiness, it will still taste great!

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce in the creamy sauce. You can also top the finished dish with sliced fresh chili peppers for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

The Best Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe is a delightful combination of simple ingredients that come together to create a wholesome meal perfect for any weeknight dinner. With its creamy sauce enveloping tender chicken and fluffy rice, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

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• Author: recipesforcook
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting dish combining tender chicken with a creamy sauce, served over fluffy rice.

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Ingredients

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• 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
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the seasoned chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil, then add the rice. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender and liquid absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, stirring for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually add whole milk and chicken broth, whisking until smooth and thickened. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar, and Parmesan until creamy.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it. Serve over rice and garnish with parsley.

Notes

Use quality ingredients for better flavor. Avoid overcooking the chicken and feel free to customize the flavor with additional spices or veggies.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 470
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 37g
• Cholesterol: 90mg