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Close-up of smothered chicken thighs served over a bed of fluffy white rice, topped with rich onion gravy and fresh herbs.

Easy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

chef Laya
Smothered Chicken and Rice is a classic Southern-inspired comfort dish made with seared chicken, tender rice, sautéed vegetables, and a rich, savory gravy — all simmered together in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy, flavorful meal will quickly become a family favorite.
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Prepr Time 15 minutes
Cooking Time 45 minutes
ToTal Time 1 heure
Type of plate Main Course
kitchen American
Serving 6

Ingrédients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 4 –6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless chicken breasts)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

For the Gravy & Rice:

  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bell pepper diced (any color)
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 cup long grain white rice uncooked
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk optional, for creaminess

Optional Additions:

  • 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess
  • Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions
 

Prep the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Sear the Chicken

  • In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken skin-side down and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

  • In the same pan, add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Make the Gravy

  • Sprinkle in flour and stir for 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring to create a smooth sauce. Add thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and cream (if using). Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Add Rice and Chicken

  • Stir uncooked rice into the gravy. Nestle seared chicken pieces on top. Ensure liquid just covers the rice (add a bit more broth if needed).

Simmer and Cook

  • Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 25–35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.

Finish and Serve

  • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Optional: stir in sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
Keyword Easy Smothered Chicken and Rice