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Irresistibly Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – A Comfort Food Classic!

Delicious Smothered Chicken and Rice served in a bowl.
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Smothered Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food! Tender, juicy chicken cooked in a rich, flavorful gravy served over fluffy rice. Perfect for meal prep and sure to be a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the chicken.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

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

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil.

Add the rice, butter, and salt. Stir, cover, and reduce heat to low.

Simmer for 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.

Slowly pour in chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps.

Add heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens (about 3-5 minutes).

Step 4: Smother the Chicken

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the gravy.

Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes over low heat, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Spoon fluffy rice onto a plate, then top with the smothered chicken and rich, creamy gravy.Serve hot and enjoy this Southern comfort classic!

Notes

Use Bone-In Chicken for Maximum Flavor – The skin and bones add richness to the dish.
Let the Rice Rest – Don’t skip the resting step after cooking for perfect fluffiness.
Want It Spicy? – Add a drizzle of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the gravy for extra heat.
Thicker Gravy? – Let it simmer a few extra minutes to reduce, or add a cornstarch slurry if needed.
Make-Ahead Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days—it reheats beautifully!

Nutrition

Keywords: Smothered Chicken and Rice

Find it online: https://mirayamsrecipe.com/smothered-chicken-and-rice/