Go Back

Smothered Chicken and Rice

Craving comfort food? Try this easy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe! Creamy, flavorful, and made in one pan—perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken:
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into chunks
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • For the Rice:
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • For the Gravy:
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms optional
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp thyme
  • 1/2 tsp ground mustard
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
  • For Garnish Optional:
  • Chopped parsley
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss chicken chunks with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Set aside.
  • Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  • Cook the Rice: In the same skillet, add rice, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until rice is tender.
  • Make the Gravy: In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Sprinkle in flour and stir for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until thickened. Add thyme, ground mustard, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  • Combine Everything: Return chicken to the skillet with rice. Pour gravy over the top and stir to combine. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with parsley and Parmesan. Serve hot!

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • Customize: Add extra veggies, swap rice for cauliflower rice, or make it spicy with hot sauce!