Effortless Chicken Creamy Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken Prep

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

→ Rice

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

→ Creamy Sauce

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

# Instructions:

01 - Coat the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and however much salt and pepper you'd like. Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Take out and place aside.
02 - In a pot, boil chicken broth with a pinch of salt. Add rice, cover it, turn heat to low, and let it cook for 15-18 minutes until all the broth is soaked up. Use a fork to fluff it and leave it aside.
03 - Using the same pan as the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Mix in flour and stir for about 1-2 minutes to make a thick paste. Slowly pour in milk and broth while whisking until it turns smooth. Add garlic powder, thyme, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese. Let it simmer to thicken up.
04 - Place the chicken back into the pan, nestling it in the rich sauce. Simmer gently for 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce reduces slightly.
05 - Scoop the fluffy rice onto plates, top it with chicken smothered in sauce, and sprinkle with parsley for a fresh touch.

# Notes:

01 - You can add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for more depth and nutrients.
02 - Switch up the cheddar with mozzarella or gouda for a different taste.
03 - Goes great with a fresh salad or a side of steamed veggies.