Smothered Chicken and Rice

 

🍗 Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

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🧂 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts, drumsticks)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Gravy:

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups chicken broth

• ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

• ½ teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 2 cups chicken broth or water

• 1 tablespoon butter

• ½ teaspoon salt

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🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

2. Mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

3. Rub the spice mix all over the chicken.

4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

5. Add chicken skin-side down and sear for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear another 3 minutes.

6. Remove chicken and set aside (it won’t be fully cooked yet).

Step 2: Make the Gravy

1. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium.

2. Add butter, then sauté onions until soft (4–5 minutes).

3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

4. Stir in flour to make a roux. Cook 1–2 minutes.

5. Slowly whisk in chicken broth until smooth.

6. Stir in cream, Worcestershire (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper.

7. Let simmer 3–5 minutes until thickened.

Step 3: Simmer Chicken in Gravy

1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet.

2. Spoon gravy over the chicken.

3. Cover and simmer on low heat for 25–30 minutes until chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temp).

4. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, broth (or water), butter, and salt.

2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and cover.

3. Simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed.

4. Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Spoon fluffy rice into a bowl or plate.

• Top with smothered chicken and plenty of gravy.

• Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of paprika.

• Serve with green beans, collard greens, or a crisp side salad.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Store cooled portions for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Warm in microwave or on stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the gravy.

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🔄 Variations

• Creamy version: Add extra cream and cheese for a thicker, indulgent sauce.

• Spicy version: Add Cajun seasoning or crushed red pepper.

• Veggie boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the gravy.