Smothered Chicken and Rice

### **Instructions:**

1. **Season the Chicken:**
– Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This will enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and prepare it for a flavorful cook.

2. **Brown the Chicken:**
– In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown. The chicken should be nicely seared on the outside but not fully cooked through yet. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. **Prepare the Rice and Sauce:**
– In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and translucent.
– Stir in the rice and toast it for about a minute. This will give the rice a delicious nutty flavor and allow it to absorb some of the aromatics.
– Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the dried thyme and rosemary (if using) and bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. **Smother the Chicken:**
– Once the rice is simmering, carefully return the browned chicken breasts to the pan. Spoon some of the rice and sauce over the chicken, ensuring that it’s “smothered” in the creamy broth. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the rice to cook fully and the chicken to finish cooking through. The sauce will thicken as it simmers.

5. **Finish and Serve:**
– Once the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added richness. If you prefer a creamier sauce, feel free to stir in a little more heavy cream to achieve your desired consistency.
– Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.

6. **Serve:**
– Spoon the creamy chicken and rice onto plates and serve hot. This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or even a light vegetable soup.

### **Pro Tips:**

– **Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor:** If you prefer more depth of flavor, try using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They add an extra richness to the dish and the skin crisps up beautifully before being smothered in the sauce.
– **Add Some Veggies:** This dish is versatile, so feel free to add vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the pan after sautéing the onions and garlic. These will add color and nutrition to the meal.
– **Add Spice for Heat:** For those who enjoy a bit of heat, try adding some cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for a zesty kick.

### **Why This Recipe is a Winner:**

**Smothered Chicken and Rice** is one of those timeless dishes that never fails to impress. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and savory rice makes this meal feel indulgent, yet it’s simple enough for everyday cooking. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning you can spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.

This comforting dish is a perfect choice when you want to create something hearty, flavorful, and satisfying for your family or guests. Once you try it, **Smothered Chicken and Rice** will surely become a regular in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!