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Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

Savory Best Smothered Chicken and Rice for Cozy Nights

The Best Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting embrace of flavors, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) or boneless for a leaner option
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Gravy
  • 1 tablespoon paprika smoked paprika offers extra depth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh garlic
  • 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch for gluten-free
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil for a lighter option
  • 1 medium onion yellow or sweet onion
  • 2 cloves minced garlic opt for fresh for the best results
  • 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 cup heavy cream half-and-half for a lighter version
For the Rice
  • 2 cups white rice any long-grain variety
For Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or scallions/thym for extra flavor

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Dredge each thigh in flour, ensuring a light coating.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for about 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
  3. In the same skillet, add more butter if necessary and sauté chopped onions for 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour over the onions, stirring continuously. Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth, simmering for 5-7 minutes.
  5. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, then return the seared chicken to the skillet, cover, and let simmer for 25–30 minutes.
  6. Cook the rice according to package instructions with a pinch of salt. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
  7. Serve fluffy rice on each plate, top with chicken thigh and pour over gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 54gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure chicken is dry before seasoning for crispy skin. Adjust cooking times if using boneless chicken.

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