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Smothered chicken and rice​

Spoon lifting tender chicken smothered in rich gravy over rice.
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Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting, Southern-inspired dish featuring tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken smothered in a rich, velvety gravy and served over fluffy white rice. This meal is packed with deep, savory flavors, thanks to a golden sear on the chicken, slow-simmered aromatics, and a perfectly thickened gravy. A true home-cooked classic that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table.

Ingredients

Scale

Core Ingredients:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter or oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Optional Additions:

  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms or diced carrots
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream for extra creaminess
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for added umami
  • Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Chicken
    Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a better sear. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne.
  2. Sear the Chicken
    Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken skin-side down and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. Build the Flavor Base
    In the same skillet, add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute until it turns a light golden brown.
  4. Create the Gravy
    Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer and allow it to thicken slightly.
  5. Simmer the Chicken
    Return the seared chicken to the skillet, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is tender and flavors meld together.
  6. Cook the Rice Separately
    While the chicken simmers, cook the rice according to package instructions to ensure a fluffy texture.
  7. Assemble and Serve
    Spoon the gravy over the rice and top with the smothered chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.

Notes

  • Use Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken for deeper flavor and a silkier gravy.
  • Searing is Key to locking in juices and adding a rich, caramelized flavor.
  • Adjust the Gravy Thickness by simmering uncovered for a thicker consistency or adding extra broth for a thinner sauce.
  • Cooking Rice Separately prevents mushy, overcooked rice and allows better texture control.

Nutrition

Keywords: Smothered chicken and rice

Find it online: https://recipes2day.com/smothered-chicken-and-rice/