Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice (Print Version)

Succulent chicken in a creamy sauce paired with perfectly cooked rice, finished with fresh parsley.

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - Salt, to taste
06 - Black pepper, to taste
07 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Rice

08 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
09 - 2 cups chicken broth
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Creamy Sauce

11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
12 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
13 - 1 1/2 cups whole milk
14 - 1/2 cup chicken broth
15 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
16 - 1/4 teaspoon thyme
17 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
18 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
19 - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Pat chicken breasts dry and season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
02 - In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Stir in rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 to 18 minutes until tender and all liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
03 - In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually pour in milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to ensure smooth texture. Add garlic powder and thyme. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until cheese is melted and sauce thickens.
04 - Return chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon sauce over each piece. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender.
05 - Spoon rice onto serving plates, top with smothered chicken breasts and generous amounts of creamy sauce. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.