Description
This Smothered Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food! Juicy, golden-browned chicken is simmered in a rich, creamy, and flavorful gravy, then served over fluffy rice to soak up every delicious bite. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep, this dish is simple, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re craving a classic Southern meal or just need an easy dinner idea, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
For the Gravy:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (warm)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (if cooking from scratch)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Season and Sear the Chicken – Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat oil in a skillet and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
- Sauté the Vegetables – In the same pan, melt butter and sauté the onions and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Gravy – Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir for 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in warm chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Add heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Stir until smooth and thickened.
- Simmer the Chicken – Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the gravy. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is rich.
- Prepare the Rice – While the chicken simmers, cook the rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and mix in butter for added flavor.
- Serve and Garnish – Spoon rice onto plates, top with smothered chicken, and drizzle with extra gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes