Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice

If you’re looking for a hearty, home-cooked meal that’s packed with flavor and comfort, look no further than Smothered Chicken and Rice. This dish is creamy, savory, and loaded with tender, juicy chicken, all smothered in a rich, homemade gravy.

It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to grab a big spoon and dig right in—the kind that fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, Sunday family gathering, or meal prep, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.

Let’s dive into this soul-warming dish that’s easy to make and even easier to love!

Why You’ll Love Smothered Chicken and Rice

One-Pan Wonder – Fewer dishes, more flavor.
Perfectly Seasoned & Juicy Chicken – No bland bites here!
Rich, Creamy Homemade Gravy – Say goodbye to store-bought.
Comfort Food at Its Best – Feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Great for Leftovers – The flavors only get better with time.

What is Smothered Chicken and Rice?

Smothered Chicken and Rice is a Southern classic, where golden-brown chicken is cooked in a savory, homemade gravy and served over perfectly fluffy rice. The gravy is rich, creamy, and full of bold flavors from garlic, onions, and seasonings that take it over the top.

It’s called “smothered” because the chicken is literally bathed in the thick, luscious gravy, ensuring that every bite is juicy, tender, and full of flavor.

This dish has deep roots in Southern cooking, where slow-cooked meats, flavorful sauces, and simple ingredients come together to create something magical.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless chicken breasts)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon salt

How to Make Smothered Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel (this helps it crisp up).
2. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Rub the seasoning evenly over the chicken pieces.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Place the chicken skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 4 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

6. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil.
7. Add the rice, butter, and salt. Stir, cover, and reduce heat to low.
8. Simmer for 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

9. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
10. Add chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
11. Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.
12. Slowly pour in chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
13. Stir in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
14. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens (about 3-5 minutes).

Step 4: Smother the Chicken

15. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the gravy.
16. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes over low heat, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

17. Spoon fluffy rice onto a plate, then top with smothered chicken and a generous ladle of creamy gravy.
18. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor – It makes the gravy richer!
Let the Rice Rest – This prevents mushy rice.
Want It Spicy? – A pinch of cayenne in the gravy adds extra heat.
Thicker Gravy? – Let it simmer longer or use a cornstarch slurry.
Meal Prep Friendly – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Smothered Chicken and Rice pairs perfectly with:
🥦 Steamed Broccoli – For a fresh, healthy balance.
🥗 Crisp Green Salad – Lightens up the meal.
🍞 Buttery Biscuits – To soak up that delicious gravy!

Final Thoughts

This Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you keep it classic or give it a Bang Bang Chicken-style twist with a spicy sauce drizzle, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

🔥 Try this recipe tonight and let me know what you think! What’s your favorite way to serve smothered chicken? Drop a comment below! 😊

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