Creamy Smothered Chicken Delight (Printable Recipe)

Creamy smothered chicken served over fluffy rice with cheese sauce. A hearty comforting family meal.

# 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 and black pepper to taste
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ For the Rice

07 - 1 cup long grain white rice
08 - 2 cups chicken broth
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ For the Creamy Sauce

10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
11 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
12 - 1 1/2 cups whole milk
13 - 1/2 cup chicken broth
14 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
15 - 1/4 teaspoon thyme
16 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
17 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
18 - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Pat chicken breasts dry. Combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then coat both sides of the chicken. Let rest for 5 minutes.
02 - Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove from pan and tent with foil.
03 - Bring chicken broth and salt to boil. Stir in rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, rest for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
04 - In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
05 - Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Add garlic powder and thyme. Simmer 2–3 minutes until thickened.
06 - Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar and Parmesan in batches, whisking until smooth and fully melted.
07 - Nestle chicken into the sauce. Cover and simmer 8–10 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internally.
08 - Spoon rice onto plates, top with chicken and sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Smoked paprika adds depth and transforms the creamy sauce with a subtle smoky aroma.
02 - Use freshly grated cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
03 - Avoid overcooking chicken in the sear; it finishes cooking in the sauce.
04 - For meal prep, sear chicken ahead and prepare sauce fresh before serving.

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