Silky Chicken with Rice (Print)

Juicy chicken bathed in a thick, garlicky sauce over soft rice - a warming meal done in 35 minutes.

# Ingredients:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (or 4 thighs)
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 tablespoon butter
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ For the Creamy Sauce

08 - 1 tablespoon butter
09 - 1/2 small onion, chopped
10 - 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
11 - 1 cup chicken broth
12 - 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
13 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
15 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
16 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ For the Rice

17 - 1 cup white or brown rice
18 - 2 cups chicken broth or water
19 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ For Garnish

20 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
21 - Additional Parmesan cheese

# Steps:

01 - Pour 2 cups of chicken broth or water into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Add 1 cup of rice and salt, then cover and turn heat to low. Let it cook for 15-18 minutes (white rice) or 35 minutes (brown rice). When done, fluff it up with a fork and set it aside.
02 - Dry the chicken breasts with paper towels and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Warm up olive oil and butter in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Take it out and put it aside.
03 - Using the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Cook onion for 2 minutes, add garlic and stir for 30 seconds. Add chicken broth while scraping the tasty bits from the bottom. Mix in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
04 - Put the chicken back in the skillet and pour sauce on top. Cover and let it bubble gently on low heat for 5-7 minutes until chicken is done (it should reach 165°F/75°C inside).
05 - Put rice on plates and top with the chicken and sauce. Scatter fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top. Serve while hot with roasted veggies or a simple salad on the side.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Spice it up: Throw in some red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne.
02 - Watching carbs? Try cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
03 - Boost the flavor: Toss mushrooms or spinach into the sauce for extra veggies.