Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice (Print-Friendly)

Tender chicken in a creamy cheese sauce served over fluffy rice - the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.

# Ingredients:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - Salt and black pepper to taste
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ For the Rice

07 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
08 - 2 cups chicken broth
09 - ½ teaspoon salt

→ For the Creamy Sauce

10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
11 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
12 - 1 ½ cups whole milk
13 - ½ cup chicken broth
14 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
15 - ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
16 - ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
17 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
18 - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# Steps:

01 - Season chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 - In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes until tender and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and reserve.
04 - Using the same skillet from the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden, creating a roux base for the sauce.
05 - Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth to create a smooth sauce. Add garlic powder and thyme, then incorporate both cheeses. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until sauce thickens and cheese melts completely.
06 - Return chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over each piece. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
07 - Arrange cooked rice on plates and top with smothered chicken. Drizzle with additional sauce and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

# Notes:

01 - Allow chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juiciness.
02 - If sauce becomes too thick, adjust consistency with a splash of broth or milk.

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