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A close-up of smothered chicken and rice garnished with parsley, showcasing the creamy gravy and tender chicken.

Smothered Chicken and Rice for a Cozy Dinner

This Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe features tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich, savory gravy and served over fluffy rice. It’s a comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners and gatherings. The combination of juicy chicken, flavorful gravy, and perfectly cooked rice creates a meal that warms the heart and satisfies the palate.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4–6 pieces of chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in for more flavor)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
  • 2 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1–2 bell peppers, chopped (any color)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Spices

  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for enhanced flavor.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing until they become soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Brown the Chicken: Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the marinated chicken pieces. Brown the chicken on both sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Once the chicken is browned, add the rice to the skillet, stirring it in with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that the rice is fully submerged. If using optional add-ins like mushrooms or carrots, add them at this stage.
  5. Cook Together: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the flavors and the chicken to become tender.
  6. Finishing Touches: After 30 minutes, check the rice for doneness. If it’s tender and the liquid has been absorbed, your dish is ready! If there’s still some liquid remaining, cover it again and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
  7. Serve: Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added color and flavor.
  • Author: Aida
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus optional overnight marination)
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 1-1.5 cups)