Print

Best Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

Best Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic
Print Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, homemade dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Best Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, well-seasoned chicken breasts are pan-seared until golden, then smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce and served over fluffy rice. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal, yet satisfying enough to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

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 dried thyme

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

  • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

  • Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Rice

  • In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil.

  • Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

  • Fluff with a fork.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

  • In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat.

  • Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

  • Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth until smooth and slightly thickened.

  • Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar, and Parmesan.

  • Cook until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.

4. Combine and Serve

  • Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.

  • Serve chicken and sauce over a bed of rice.

  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Use Chicken Thighs: For even juicier results, swap breasts for boneless, skinless thighs.

  • Extra Flavor: Add sautéed mushrooms or onions to the sauce.

  • Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk and reduce the cheese slightly.

  • Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/best-smothered-chicken-and-rice-recipe-the-ultimate-comfort-food-classic/