Smothered chicken and rice is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor.
This hearty dish features tender chicken smothered in a flavorful gravy, paired with perfectly cooked rice that soaks up all the delicious juices.
Whether you’re looking for a soul-warming meal on a chilly evening or a dish to impress your family, this smothered chicken and rice recipe is a must-try.
📌 Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~580 kcal per serving
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate comfort food – Warm, creamy, and satisfying.
- One-pan meal – Less cleanup and easy preparation.
- Family-friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Budget-friendly ingredients – Uses simple pantry staples.
- Meal prep friendly – Makes excellent leftovers.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
Savory Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Rub the seasoning mix all over the chicken.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Gravy
- Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same pan.
- Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth, making sure to dissolve any lumps.
- Stir in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Let the gravy simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
- While the gravy simmers, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil.
- Add rice, salt, and butter (if using).
- Cover and reduce heat to low, simmering for 18-20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 4: Simmer Everything Together
- Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the gravy.
- Cover and let simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon the fluffy rice onto plates or a serving dish.
- Top with smothered chicken and generously drizzle the gravy over everything.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken – It provides more flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
- Sear the chicken well – This creates a crispy, golden crust that enhances the taste.
- Don’t rush the gravy – Letting it simmer ensures a deep, rich flavor.
- Rinse the rice – It removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
- Adjust seasoning – Taste as you cook and tweak the salt and spices to your preference.
Variations & Substitutions
- Use chicken breasts – If you prefer white meat, adjust the cooking time to avoid dryness.
- Make it spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Dairy-free option – Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
- Vegetable boost – Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrition.
- Rice alternatives – Try brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
What to Serve with Smothered Chicken and Rice
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with:
- Steamed vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
- Cornbread – Adds a sweet, crumbly texture to the meal.
- Side salad – A fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy dish.
- Mashed potatoes – If you want to swap out the rice, mashed potatoes work beautifully with the gravy.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The rice and gravy may thicken in the fridge, but adding a splash of chicken broth when reheating helps restore the consistency.
Freezing:
- Place chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Freeze rice separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
- Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring between each session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the chicken first, then place all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Can I use store-bought gravy?
You can, but homemade gravy has a richer flavor and better consistency.
What’s the best rice to use?
Long-grain white rice works best, but jasmine or basmati rice are great alternatives.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Final Thoughts
Smothered chicken and rice is a cozy, comforting dish perfect for any night of the week.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe delivers rich, savory flavors that never disappoint.
Try it today and experience the best homemade smothered chicken and rice!
Have you tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments! And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family.
