Description
A creamy, cheesy one-skillet meal featuring tender chicken and fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1½ cups)
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms, optional
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1¼ cups uncooked basmati rice
- 2½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 packed cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
- ½ cup sour cream (optional)
Instructions
- Melt the butter and heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until golden for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more.
- Stir in the cubed chicken thighs and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the chicken is white on the outside, about 5 minutes.
- Add the uncooked rice and seasonings. Stir for 2 minutes until the rice becomes fragrant.
- Reduce heat to medium and sprinkle flour over the mixture. Stir for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in half the milk.
- Add the remaining milk and chicken broth while whisking until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook undisturbed for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Remove the lid and let it rest for 10 minutes with the lid on.
- Stir in half the shredded cheese, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover briefly until melted.
- Serve topped with parsley and sour cream if desired.
Notes
Customize with additional ingredients like bell peppers or swap chicken thighs for breasts. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, One-Pot Meal
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American