Name: Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
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 dried thyme; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a comforting, flavorful, and downright delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice. This dish takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a luscious, cheesy, and rich combination that’s perfect for any night of the week. Imagine tender chicken breasts bathed in a velvety sauce, resting on a bed of fluffy, perfectly cooked rice – it’s a one-pan wonder that quickly becomes a family favorite. The magic truly lies in how the creamy sauce envelops the chicken and rice, creating a comforting dish that everyone will rave about.

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each ingredient plays an essential role—bringing in layers of flavor, creaminess, or the perfect texture balance that makes the dish so irresistible.

4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts): The star protein, tender and easy to cook evenly for a juicy bite every time.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic depth without overpowering the other flavors.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings subtle sweetness and enhances the savory notes.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Offers a mild smoky warmth and beautiful color.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring all elements together perfectly.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken to a gorgeous golden crust.
1 cup long-grain white rice: Creates a fluffy, neutral base that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
2 cups chicken broth: Used for cooking rice and adds a savory undertone to the dish.
½ teaspoon salt: To season the rice while cooking.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Forms the rich foundation of the creamy sauce.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to that perfect silky texture.
1 ½ cups whole milk: Keeps the sauce lush and creamy.
½ cup chicken broth: Adds flavor and thins the sauce to just the right consistency.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Reinforces that signature garlicky touch in the sauce.
¼ teaspoon thyme: Lends a subtle earthy, herbal note.
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and richness to the sauce.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty finish.
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): For a fresh pop of color and brightness on top.

How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and generously seasoning them with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning mix creates a flavorful crust and forms the base of the dish’s signature taste. Don’t be shy here—seasoning well makes all the difference.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until each piece turns a beautiful golden brown. This step locks in the juices and gives you that irresistible browned exterior. Once seared, set the chicken aside to rest while you tackle the rice and sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

In a separate medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and salt to a boil. Stir in the rice, lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 15 to 18 minutes. The rice will soak up all that savory broth, becoming tender and fluffy—the perfect canvas for the creamy chicken topping.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Using the same skillet from the chicken (to capture all those flavorful browned bits), melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook it for 1 to 2 minutes until it turns lightly golden; this step creates a roux that thickens your sauce beautifully. Slowly add the milk and chicken broth while whisking to keep the sauce silky smooth without lumps.

Step 5: Add Seasonings and Cheese to the Sauce

Sprinkle in garlic powder, thyme, shredded cheddar, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until everything melts together into a rich, velvety cream sauce. This sauce is the heart of the Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice experience, offering both tang and depth with every spoonful.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon extra sauce on top to smother them fully, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This final step ensures the chicken finishes cooking while soaking up the luscious sauce, making each bite tender and flavorful.

Step 7: Plate and Serve

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and pile it onto your serving plates. Top the rice with the smothered chicken and generous amounts of creamy sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch that brings the whole dish to life.

How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a perfect, simple garnish that adds a burst of green color and a mild herbal brightness, balancing the richness of the cream sauce. If you like a hint of heat, a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors beautifully without overpowering the dish.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans adds freshness and crunch. Roasted carrots or sautéed mushrooms also complement the creamy, cheesy notes with earthy sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, consider serving this dish in shallow bowls to hold all the creamy sauce perfectly. You can also add a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or a drizzle of garlic butter on top just before serving to make it extra special for guests or family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The best part about Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is that it reheats beautifully, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken in the fridge, but it will loosen up again when reheated gently.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely and then pack the chicken and rice with the sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results and reheat slowly to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to ensure the sauce stays creamy and the chicken remains tender.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and a bit more chew, though it will require a longer cooking time and slightly more liquid. Just adjust accordingly and keep an eye on the rice to avoid drying out.

What type of cheese works best for the sauce?

Sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese create the perfect blend of tanginess and savory depth, but feel free to experiment with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of cream cheese for a twist on creaminess.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine, use a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and choose dairy-free cheese alternatives. The flavor might vary slightly but will still be delicious.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and feels firm to the touch but still juicy. The sauce simmering over the chicken helps finish the cooking gently.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken your sauce. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt for dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

There is something wonderfully satisfying about a home-cooked dish like Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice. It’s not just a meal—it’s a cozy experience, blending rich, creamy sauce with tender chicken and comforting rice. Whether you’re feeding the family or just craving a wholesome dinner, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. So, give it a try, invite some loved ones, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 24 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe offers tender, flavorful chicken breasts cooked in a rich and cheesy creamy sauce, served over perfectly cooked long-grain white rice. Infused with garlic, smoked paprika, and a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, this comforting one-pan meal is simple to prepare and perfect for a hearty dinner.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to infuse them with bold flavors.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and ½ teaspoon salt to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until tender and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
Make the Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden to create a roux.
Add Liquids and Cheese: Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth to the roux, stirring constantly until a smooth sauce forms. Add garlic powder, thyme, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and cheese melts completely.
Combine and Simmer: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the creamy sauce over them. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to finish cooking and soak in the flavors.
Serve: Plate the cooked rice and top with the smothered chicken and creamy sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately for a comforting meal.

Notes

Use whole milk for a richer sauce, but you can substitute with 2% milk if preferred.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
Make sure to not overcrowd the pan when searing chicken to achieve a nice golden crust.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and enhances the flavor compared to pre-grated.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Searing and Simmering
Cuisine: American