Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the chicken

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

→ For the rice

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

→ For the creamy sauce

10 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
11 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
12 - 1½ cups whole milk
13 - ½ cup chicken broth
14 - ½ tsp garlic powder
15 - ¼ tsp thyme
16 - ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
17 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
18 - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt and black pepper. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from pan and set aside.
02 - Bring chicken broth and salt to a boil in a saucepan. Add rice, cover, reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with fork and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly add milk and broth, whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan. Simmer until sauce thickens.
04 - Return chicken to skillet, nestle into the creamy sauce, and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked through and sauce has further reduced.
05 - Spoon fluffy rice onto plates, top with smothered chicken and generous spoonfuls of sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

# Notes:

01 - Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
02 - Cheddar cheese can be substituted with mozzarella or gouda for variation.
03 - Pairs excellently with steamed vegetables or a crisp side salad.