Cozy Southern Dish (Printable Version)
Soft chicken soaked in a cheesy, creamy mix on top of fluffy rice—this comforting Southern favorite is quick and easy for a busy night.
# Ingredients:
→ Chicken Prep
01 -
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
02 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
03 -
1 tsp onion powder
04 -
1 tsp garlic powder
05 -
Salt and black pepper as you like
06 -
2 tbsp olive oil
→ Making the Rice
07 -
1 cup white rice (long-grain)
08 -
2 cups broth (chicken)
09 -
1/2 tsp salt
→ Sauce Ingredients
10 -
2 tbsp butter (unsalted)
11 -
2 tbsp flour (all-purpose)
12 -
1 1/2 cups milk (whole)
13 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
14 -
1/2 tsp garlic powder
15 -
1/4 tsp dried thyme
16 -
1/2 cup Parmesan (grated)
17 -
1/2 cup cheddar (shredded)
18 -
Fresh parsley (chopped for topping)
# Steps:
01 -
Mix the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper together, and coat the chicken on both sides. Get some olive oil sizzling over medium-high in a big skillet. Brown the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until it looks golden. Take it out and set it aside.
02 -
Get a medium pot and bring some chicken broth with a bit of salt to a boil. Stir in the rice, turn the heat super low, cover it up, and let it cook for about 15-18 minutes until the broth is all soaked up and the rice is soft. Fluff it up gently, then set aside.
03 -
In the same pan used for chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk it for a minute or two until it looks slightly tan. Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add garlic powder, thyme, cheddar, and Parmesan. Keep stirring, then cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cheeses melt.
04 -
Add the chicken back into the pan and generously coat it with the creamy sauce. Cover the pan and let everything simmer gently on low heat for about 10 minutes. The chicken should be soft and fully cooked by then.
05 -
Spoon the rice onto plates. Lay the chicken on top and pour the creamy sauce all over. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and enjoy while it’s hot!
# Notes:
01 -
To get extra flavor in the chicken, make sure to brown it well before removing it from the pan.
02 -
You can save leftovers and reheat them on the stove or pop them in the microwave for a quick meal.
03 -
Switch out whole milk for half-and-half if you're looking for a lighter sauce.
04 -
Boneless chicken thighs are a great swap if you prefer a juicier, more tender cut.