Savory Smothered Chicken and Rice: Cozy Comfort in Every Bite
A hearty, comforting dish featuring tender chicken and flavorful rice smothered in a rich, creamy gravy.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs chicken thighs skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 onion onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium) low sodium
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- Pinch salt
Instructions
- Sear the chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Heat oil in a large skillet and cook chicken skin-side down for 5–6 minutes. Flip and cook 4–5 more minutes. Remove from pan.
- Make the gravy base: In the same pan, sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Build the gravy: Slowly whisk in broth and cream. Simmer until thickened. Season to taste.
- Simmer chicken: Return chicken to the skillet. Cover and cook on low for 10–12 minutes until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Cook the rice: In a separate pot, cook rice with broth or water and salt until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Serve: Spoon rice into bowls and top with smothered chicken and gravy.
Notes
For extra flavor, use chicken broth instead of water when cooking the rice.