Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice (Print-Friendly Version)

Tender chicken rests in creamy, cheesy sauce layered over fluffy rice for a simple yet comforting Southern main.

# What You’ll Need to Make This:

→ 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 dried thyme
17 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
18 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
19 - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

# How to Prepare:

01 - Season chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer seared chicken to a plate and set aside.
02 - In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Fluff rice with a fork and keep warm.
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 continuously to achieve a smooth consistency. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3–4 minutes until sauce is thickened and cheeses are fully melted.
04 - Return seared chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the chicken, cover, and simmer on low heat for approximately 10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked through and tender.
05 - Arrange cooked rice on serving plates, top with smothered chicken and creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Browning the chicken intensifies flavor and enhances texture; use medium-high heat for a golden crust that locks in moisture.

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