Introduction:
Smothered Chicken and Rice is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The chicken is cooked until tender, then “smothered” in a creamy, flavorful gravy, and served over a bed of fluffy rice. This dish combines the rich flavors of seasoned chicken, savory gravy, and the soft texture of rice for a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just enjoy a comforting weeknight dinner, Smothered Chicken and Rice is a great choice.
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option)
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with paprika, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Add Rice and Chicken:
Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine. Place the chicken back into the skillet on top of the rice. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Add Cream (Optional):
If you want a creamier sauce, stir in the heavy cream at this point and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Description:
This Smothered Chicken and Rice dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts that are cooked in a flavorful gravy made from cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth. The rice absorbs all the rich, savory sauce as it cooks, making it incredibly flavorful. The dish is creamy and comforting, with a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and flavor. This is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to please the whole family.
Tips:
Rice Substitutes: If you prefer brown rice, use it in place of white rice. Just keep in mind that brown rice may take a little longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms to the gravy to make the dish even more hearty.
Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or use spicy paprika to give the dish a spicy kick.
Use Bone-In Chicken: For even more flavor, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for bone-in pieces.
Variations:
Cheesy Smothered Chicken: Add shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chicken before covering with the lid. Let the cheese melt into the gravy for a cheesy twist.
Smothered Chicken with Mushrooms: Sauté fresh mushrooms along with the onions for a more robust flavor.
Lemon Herb Smothered Chicken: Add some lemon zest and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh, bright twist.
Corrections:
If you find the sauce too thick during cooking, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Ensure that the rice is fully cooked by checking the texture before serving. If it’s still firm, let it cook a little longer with the lid on.
Enjoy:
Serve this comforting and delicious Smothered Chicken and Rice with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It’s a true crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion.