Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice (Printer-Friendly)

Creamy chicken with cheese sauce served over fluffy rice. A cozy, one-skillet Southern-style meal.

# The 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 - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
02 - 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 the 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 1–2 minutes until golden. Slowly add milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar, and Parmesan. Cook for 3–4 minutes until thick and smooth.
04 - Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it. Cover and simmer on low for 10 minutes until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
05 - Plate the cooked rice, top with chicken and sauce, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Pat chicken dry before seasoning for optimal searing.
02 - Use freshly grated cheese to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.
03 - Let chicken rest a few minutes before serving for juicier meat.
04 - Thin sauce with extra broth or milk if it becomes too thick.
05 - Long-grain rice prevents the dish from becoming mushy.

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