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Best Smothered Chicken and Rice

Best Smothered Chicken and Rice for Ultimate Comfort Food Bliss

This Best Smothered Chicken and Rice is a hearty, family-friendly meal perfect for a cozy dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Thighs bone-in, skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons Butter
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
For the Gravy
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 2 tablespoons Flour all-purpose or cornstarch
  • 1 medium Onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth low-sodium or homemade
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream can substitute with half-and-half
For Serving
  • 2 cups White Rice jasmine or basmati
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pot for Rice

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Lightly dredge in flour.
  2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken, skin-side down, for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 4–5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
  3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
  4. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring to combine and form a roux. Cook for 1 minute until pale golden. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. The gravy should have a rich flavor.
  6. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling into the gravy. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 175°F.
  7. Cook white rice according to package instructions, about 15–20 minutes, before serving.
  8. Spoon gravy over rice on each plate, top with chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container. Freezer-friendly for up to 2 months. Reheat gently.

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