Ingredients
Rice
- 1 cup long grain rice
Chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Rice: Prepare the long grain rice according to the package directions until fully cooked and fluffy. Set aside and keep warm.
- Cook Chicken: While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear without stirring for 2-3 minutes to develop a crust. Stir and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce Base: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux (paste) that will thicken the sauce.
- Make Cream Sauce: Slowly whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly. Stir in salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and gently stir to coat them in the creamy sauce. Let everything heat through for another minute or two.
- Serve: Spoon the smothered chicken and sauce over the cooked rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish!
Notes
- For best results, use fresh Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated to enhance the sauce’s flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer a few minutes longer until desired consistency.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee food safety.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though sauce may be less rich.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American