Smothered Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
- 4–6 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown chicken on both sides; remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onion until soft, then add garlic.
- Stir in rice and toast for 1 minute.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream; stir to combine.
- Nestle chicken back into the pan. Cover and simmer 25–30 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Rest 5 minutes, garnish, and serve.
Notes
- Use thighs for extra tenderness.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for depth.
Smothered Chicken and Rice is the definition of classic comfort food—warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Perfectly seasoned chicken is seared until golden, then gently simmered in a rich, savory gravy alongside tender rice that absorbs every layer of flavor.
Cooking everything in one pan allows the rice to soak up the seasoned broth and cream, creating a silky, cohesive dish with minimal effort. The onions and garlic add depth, while the slow simmer ensures juicy chicken and fluffy rice every time. This meal is ideal for cozy family dinners, meal prep, or anytime you crave something filling and nostalgic. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable with vegetables or herbs. Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic, home-cooked feel that delivers comfort in every spoonful.
