Ingredients Quantity
- Chicken thighs or drumsticks: 6-8 pieces (bone-in, skin-on for flavor)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Flour: ½ cup (for dredging)
- Vegetable oil: 3 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 large, thinly sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Chicken broth: 2 cups
- Heavy cream or whole milk: ½ cup
- Cooked white rice: 4 cups
Optional Additions
- Mushrooms: Sautéed for added umami flavor.
- Bell peppers: Thinly sliced for a colorful touch.
- Cayenne pepper: A pinch for heat.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish.
Tips for Success
- Season generously: Proper seasoning is key to a flavorful dish.
- Brown the chicken well: This step enhances the depth of flavor in the gravy.
- Cook low and slow: Simmering ensures the chicken becomes tender and the gravy thickens beautifully.
- Control consistency: Adjust the thickness of the gravy with a little broth or flour as needed.
Instructions
- Season and dredge chicken: Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub the chicken pieces with the mixture, then dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
- Brown the chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
- Make the gravy: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour into the skillet, stirring to combine with the oil. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and cream, creating a smooth gravy.
- Simmer the chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, reduce heat, and cover. Simmer for 30-40 minutes, occasionally spooning gravy over the chicken.
- Serve: Plate the chicken and gravy over a generous serving of cooked rice. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Description
Smothered Chicken and Rice is a hearty, creamy dish bursting with savory flavors. The juicy chicken, paired with rich gravy, soaks into the rice, creating a symphony of textures and tastes. The balance of spices and the smooth, velvety sauce make each bite deeply satisfying.
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Conclusion and Recommendation
Smothered Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal—it’s a cozy embrace on a plate. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend family gatherings, this dish brings warmth and comfort to your table.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter twist, use skinless chicken breasts or thighs and swap heavy cream for low-fat milk. Brown rice can replace white rice for added fiber. These adjustments allow you to enjoy this classic dish while maintaining a healthier balance.
Dive into the comforting flavors of Smothered Chicken and Rice and let it become a new favorite in your recipe collection!