Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice (Print Version)

Comforting chicken in cheese sauce over rice. Hearty and rich Southern-inspired dinner.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ 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, to taste
06 - Black pepper, to taste
07 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ For the Rice

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

→ For the 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 - Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Pat chicken breasts dry and season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
02 - In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Stir in rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Add garlic powder, thyme, cheddar, and Parmesan. Stir until thickened and cheese is melted.
04 - Return seared chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the chicken, cover, and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender.
05 - Spoon rice onto plates, top with chicken and sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

# Extra Tips & Details:

01 - Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce texture.
02 - Let the chicken rest before serving to retain moisture.
03 - Thin the sauce with broth or milk if it becomes too thick.
04 - Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

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