Carmen'z Kitchen

SMOTHERED CHICKEN AND RICE

🍴 Serves 4
⏰30-45 minutes

INGREDIENTS

For the Smothered Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

For the Veggie Rice:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., diced carrots, peas, corn)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

SIDES, VARIATIONS, & TOPPINGS (OPTIONAL)

  • Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright contrast to the creamy flavors.
  • Fresh Herbs – Try chopped parsley, basil, or thyme for added freshness.
  • Add Mushrooms – Sauté with the garlic before adding
  • Swap the Protein – Use boneless thighs, turkey cutlets, or even tofu for a meatless version.
  • Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt, and cinnamon. Adds natural sweetness and fiber.
  • Cucumber-Tomato Salad – Tossed with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Cool, crisp, and refreshing.
  • Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans – Quick, easy, and full of nutrients. Sprinkle with a little lemon zest or garlic for flavor.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare the Veggie Rice:

  • In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted.
  • Pour in the chicken broth, add the mixed vegetables, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  • Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken:

  • Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3. Prepare the Creamy Spinach Sauce:

  • In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter.
  • Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

  • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy spinach sauce over them.
  • Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Plating:

  • Plate a serving of veggie rice and top with a chicken breast smothered in the creamy spinach sauce.
  • Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

HEALTHY TIPS

  • Choose Lean Protein: Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs to reduce saturated fat while maintaining high-quality protein content.
  • Incorporate More Vegetables: Add a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to increase fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
  • Use Whole Grains: Replace white rice with whole grains like brown rice or quinoa to boost fiber and nutrient intake.
  • Use a Lighter Cream Alternative: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream to reduce saturated fat while maintaining creaminess.
  • Add Healthy Fats: Include heart-healthy fats by adding a small amount of olive oil or avocado slices to the dish.
  • Limit Added Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and seasonings to control sodium intake, which supports heart health and helps manage blood pressure.
  • Prepare Ahead for Convenience: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a convenient option for meal prepping.
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