Name: Smothered Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: Chicken thighs or drumsticks; White rice; Chicken broth; Onion; Garlic; Bell pepper; Celery; Flour; Butter or oil; Salt; Black pepper; Paprika; Thyme; Bay leaf

Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting, hearty dish where tender chicke n is cooked slowly in a rich, flavorful gravy and served over perfectly seasoned rice. It’s a homestyle favorite that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms simple, everyday ingredients into something deeply flavorful and filling. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, soaking up all the delicious gravy, while the rice serves as the perfect base to capture all that savory goodness. It’s easy to prepare, makes the house smell amazing, and feels like a big hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken thighs or drumsticks
White rice
Chicken broth
Onion
Garlic
Bell pepper
Celery
Flour
Butter or oil
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Thyme
Bay leaf

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
I sear the chicken in a large skillet with butter or oil until browned on all sides, then set it aside.
In the same skillet, I sauté onions, garlic, bell pepper, and celery until softened.
I sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well to create a roux.
Slowly, I whisk in chicken broth to make a smooth, rich gravy.
I add the thyme and bay leaf, then return the chicken to the skillet, covering it with the gravy.
I let it simmer gently until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Meanwhile, I cook the rice separately until fluffy.
Once everything is ready, I spoon the smothered chicken and gravy generously over the rice.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 45 minutes Total time: 1 hour

Variations

I sometimes add mushrooms for an earthier flavor or swap the white rice for brown rice or even mashed potatoes. For a little heat, I like to sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper. When I want a creamier version, I stir in a splash of heavy cream into the gravy before serving.

Storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it slowly on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the gravy. It can also be microwaved in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

How do I make the gravy thicker?

I simply let the gravy simmer a little longer to reduce or add a touch more flour to thicken it up.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, I can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts, but I prefer bone-in pieces for deeper flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often prepare it a day in advance because it tastes even better after the flavors have melded together.

What’s the best rice to serve with smothered chicken?

I usually stick to long-grain white rice, but jasmine or basmati rice are also excellent options.

Can I freeze smothered chicken and rice?

I recommend freezing the chicken and gravy separately from the rice to maintain the best texture when reheating.

Conclusion

Smothered Chicken and Rice is pure comfort food that never fails to satisfy. I love how the rich gravy, tender chicken, and fluffy rice come together to create a dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or anytime I crave something hearty and homemade. It’s easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a staple in my kitchen.