Comfort Food with Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe | Southern Soul Food Dinner Idea
"This smothered chicken and rice recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Tender chicken simmered in rich gravy served over fluffy rice makes a hearty, soul-warming dish perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in."
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Saucepan (for rice)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or wild)
- Optional: mushrooms, parsley, Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Pat chicken dry. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Brown Chicken: Heat oil in skillet. Sear chicken until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Make Gravy: In same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Stir in flour, then slowly add broth to deglaze pan. Add cream and simmer until thickened.
- Simmer Chicken: Return chicken to skillet. Cover and cook on low for 25–30 minutes until tender.
- Cook Rice: Prepare rice separately according to package instructions. Fluff with fork.
- Serve: Spoon rice onto plates. Top with smothered chicken and ladle gravy generously. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Deglaze pan with broth or wine after browning chicken for richer gravy.
- Don’t overcook chicken — simmer gently until just tender.
- Variations: Try Cajun spices, mushroom gravy, or holiday cranberry garnish.
- Storage: Refrigerate in airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on stovetop.