Description
A comforting Southern classic, this Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe features tender chicken, rich gravy, and perfectly cooked rice. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Lightly coat with flour, shaking off any excess.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken, skin-side down, until golden brown (4-5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, cook the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and celery until softened (3-4 minutes).
- Make the Gravy: Sprinkle in a little flour and stir to coat the vegetables. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and heavy cream, stirring until thickened.
- Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the gravy. Cover and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender.
- Prepare the Rice: While the chicken cooks, prepare rice according to package instructions.
- Assemble and Serve: Serve the chicken over rice, ladling gravy on top. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Vegetable Additions: Try mushrooms, carrots, or peas.
- Protein Alternatives: Use pork chops, turkey cutlets, or tofu.
- Cajun-Style: Use Cajun seasoning and andouille sausage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: main dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: southern
Keywords: Smothered chicken and rice, Southern comfort food, easy chicken recipe, creamy chicken and rice, one-pan meal