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

# Notes:

01 - For extra flavor, you can add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the sauce.
02 - If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for an extra few minutes or add a bit more cheese.
03 - Swap out white rice for brown rice for a nuttier flavor, but increase cooking time to about 40 minutes.