Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

A Comforting, Flavorful Classic Made Simple

Smothered Chicken and Rice is a soul-warming dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken, creamy gravy, and perfectly cooked rice. Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, this meal is both hearty and easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or a comforting Sunday dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Uses common ingredients and minimal prep time.
• One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup and all the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Comforting and Satisfying – Perfect for a wholesome, home-cooked meal.
• Customizable – Easily adaptable to different flavors and dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

4. In the same skillet, melt butter and add chopped onion. Sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute, until lightly golden.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

7. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk, ensuring no lumps form.
8. Add thyme and Worcestershire sauce (if using), stirring to combine.
9. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly, about 3 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Rice and Chicken

10. Stir in the uncooked rice, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
11. Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, covering with the gravy.
12. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

13. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the dish and cover for an additional 2 minutes until melted.
14. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Variations & Substitutions

• Protein Swap – Use boneless chicken thighs, chicken breasts, or even turkey.
• Dairy-Free Option – Substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond or coconut milk.
• Grain Alternatives – Try brown rice (adjust cooking time) or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
• Extra Vegetables – Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for more nutrients and flavor.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to restore moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything up to the simmering stage, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to eat, reheat over low heat until warmed through.

Can I use instant rice?

You can, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Add the instant rice towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.

What can I serve with smothered chicken and rice?

This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, cornbread, or a fresh green salad.

How do I make the dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the gravy.

Can I cook this in the oven instead of on the stovetop?

Yes, after adding the rice and chicken, cover and bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes or until fully cooked.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the gravy.

Can I add mushrooms?

Absolutely! Sauté them with the onions for an earthy depth of flavor.

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time since bone-in chicken breasts take longer to cook.

What’s the best way to prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Use long-grain rice and avoid over-stirring after adding it to the skillet.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sear the chicken first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours.

Conclusion

Smothered Chicken and Rice is a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, savory flavors and simple preparation, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to your liking, it’s a delicious, satisfying meal that never disappoints. Enjoy!

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