Smothered Chicken and Rice

Introduction

Smothered Chicken and Rice is classic comfort food at its best — tender chicken simmered
in a rich, savory gravy and served over fluffy rice. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and perfect
for both busy weeknights and cozy weekends. Simple ingredients come together to create a meal
that tastes slow-cooked and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

For the Gravy:

• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice:

• 2 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
• Butter (optional)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken: Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika,
   garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Sear the chicken: Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
   Brown chicken on both sides, then remove and set aside.
3. Cook onions (and mushrooms): Add onions to the skillet and cook until
   softened. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Make the gravy: Sprinkle flour over onions and stir. Gradually pour in chicken
   broth while stirring. Add thyme, Worcestershire, and cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.
5. Smother the chicken: Return chicken to the skillet, reduce heat, cover,
   and cook for 25–30 minutes until tender.
6. Prepare the rice: Cook rice according to package directions. Fluff and add butter if desired.
7. Serve: Spoon chicken and gravy generously over warm rice.

Description

This Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe delivers tender chicken drenched in a creamy, savory gravy
infused with onions, herbs, and rich broth. Thick enough to cling to the chicken and soak into the
rice, the sauce brings the whole dish together in a warm, comforting way that satisfies every time.

Tips

• Use chicken thighs for the juiciest, most flavorful results.
• Don’t skip browning — it builds deep flavor for the gravy.
• Add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or celery to stretch the dish.
• If the gravy is too thick, add broth; too thin, simmer longer.
• Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, noodles, or cauliflower rice.

Correction

• Too salty? Add cream, broth, or a pinch of sugar.
• Too thick? Add a splash of broth.
• Too thin? Simmer uncovered.
• Bland? Increase garlic, pepper, thyme, or add Worcestershire.

Enjoy

Serve hot over fresh rice and garnish with parsley if you like. Let the rice soak up the
flavorful gravy and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal every time.