Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice (Print Version)

# 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 - ½ teaspoon salt

→ Creamy Sauce

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

# Instructions:

01 - Season the chicken 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 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
02 - In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and the cheese is melted.
04 - Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
05 - Plate the cooked rice. Top with the smothered chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for a better sear.
02 - Use freshly grated cheese for the creamiest sauce.
03 - Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.