Name: Smothered Chicken and Rice: A Comforting and Wholesome Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: southern
Ingredients: 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1/2 cup celery, chopped; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 3 cups cooked white or brown rice; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smothered chicken and rice is a heartwarming dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with rich, flavorful gravy and perfectly cooked rice. It’s a Southern classic that brings together simple ingredients to create a satisfying and nourishing meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this dish is easy to prepare, packed with comforting flavors, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Full of flavor – The creamy, savory sauce coats every bite of chicken and rice, making it irresistible.
Easy to make – This dish requires minimal prep and simple cooking techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
Versatile – You can customize it with different seasonings, vegetables, and even proteins.
Perfect for meal prep – Smothered chicken and rice reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers.
One-pot convenience – Many versions of this dish can be made in a single pan for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
All-purpose flour
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Butter
Olive oil
Onion
Garlic
Bell peppers
Celery
Chicken broth
Heavy cream or milk
Worcestershire sauce
Cooked white or brown rice
Fresh parsley

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Lightly coat in flour, shaking off any excess.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, skin-side down, and cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, bell peppers, and celery. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Make the Gravy: Sprinkle in a bit of flour and stir to coat the vegetables. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture thickens.
Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the gravy. Cover and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Prepare the Rice: While the chicken simmers, cook your rice according to package instructions if you haven’t already.
Assemble the Dish: Once the chicken is cooked, serve it over a generous portion of rice, ladling the gravy on top. Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy twist.
Vegetable Boost – Incorporate mushrooms, carrots, or peas for added nutrients and flavor.
Creamy Alternative – Use sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a tangy richness.
Different Proteins – Substitute chicken with pork chops, turkey cutlets, or even tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Cajun-Style – Use Cajun seasoning and andouille sausage for a Louisiana-inspired take.

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze smothered chicken and rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture. Microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work well, but bone-in chicken provides extra flavor.

What type of rice is best for this dish?

Long-grain white rice is traditional, but brown rice, jasmine rice, or even wild rice can be used for different textures and flavors.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use less butter and heavy cream, and opt for skinless chicken. You can also substitute whole wheat flour for a lighter gravy.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sear the chicken first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use cornstarch instead of flour and serve with gluten-free rice to make it gluten-free.

What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?

If the gravy is too thin, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the skillet, cooking until thickened.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes! A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan adds an extra layer of richness.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free butter alternative.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cooking the chicken over low heat in the gravy helps keep it moist. Avoid overcooking.

Can I prepare this meal in advance?

Yes! You can cook the dish a day in advance and reheat it gently before serving. The flavors often deepen overnight.

Conclusion

Smothered chicken and rice is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy gravy, and perfectly cooked rice for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or making a large batch for meal prep, this dish is versatile, flavorful, and easy to customize. Give it a try and enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal that never fails to impress!

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