Savory Smothered Chicken and Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the epitome of comfort food—rich, savory, and satisfying. The chicken thighs are perfectly cooked in a flavorful gravy made with onions, garlic, and chicken broth, and the addition of heavy cream makes the gravy creamy and delicious. The rice absorbs all the savory goodness from the gravy, making it the ideal side dish. Plus, with easy-to-find ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is simple to make but tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just yourself, this dish is a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken & Gravy:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Cook the Rice:
   • In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add a pinch of salt.
   • Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika.
   • Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, until the skin is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Gravy:
   • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour. This will help thicken the gravy.
   • Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken.
   • Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme, and let the gravy simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Return the cooked chicken thighs to the pan with the gravy. Spoon some gravy over the chicken to coat.
   • Cover the skillet and simmer on low for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up some of the gravy flavors.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the smothered chicken over a bed of the cooked rice. Spoon extra gravy over the top and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Boneless Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer a quicker cooking option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking the chicken.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach into the gravy for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Smothered Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for a spicy kick.
• Brown Rice Option: You can substitute the long-grain white rice with brown rice, though the cooking time for brown rice will be longer (about 40-45 minutes).

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and gravy in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the skin may lose its crispness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily, so be sure to cook them carefully and check the internal temperature to ensure they don’t overcook.

Can I make the gravy without heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk as a lighter alternative to heavy cream. For a dairy-free version, you can try coconut milk or almond milk, though the flavor will change slightly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chicken and gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat the dish before serving and cook the rice fresh.

Can I make this recipe with a different type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute the long-grain white rice with other types of rice, such as jasmine or basmati. Keep in mind that different rice varieties may require different cooking times and liquid ratios.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Can I add more cream to the gravy?

Yes, you can add more cream to make the gravy richer and creamier. Just adjust the seasoning if necessary, as the extra cream might mellow the flavors.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to thaw it first. Cooking frozen chicken directly in the skillet can result in uneven cooking.

How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?

If the gravy is too thin, you can mix a small amount of flour or cornstarch with water to form a slurry and stir it into the gravy. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

Can I make the rice with broth instead of water?

Yes, using chicken broth instead of water will add more flavor to the rice and complement the savory chicken and gravy.

What can I serve with Savory Smothered Chicken and Rice?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted carrots. For a heartier side, try garlic bread or cornbread.

Conclusion

Savory Smothered Chicken and Rice is a classic comfort food dish that’s packed with flavor and sure to satisfy. The combination of tender chicken, creamy gravy, and fluffy rice makes for a hearty and filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, delicious, and full of savory goodness—what’s not to love? Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy!

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