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Hearty Best Smothered Chicken and Rice: A Comfort Classic

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  • Prep Time: 25-35 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 45-60 Minutes
  • Total Time: 70-95 Minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 Servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner

Description

How to make tender chicken and fluffy rice smothered in a rich, creamy gravy that your whole family will adore for dinner tonight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Main Components:
  • 2.5–3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
  • 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Aromatics & Flavor Boosters:
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Seasonings & Herbs:
  • 1.5 teaspoons Kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Garnish:
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. Sear Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown and crispy in a large Dutch oven with a bit of oil. Remove chicken and set aside. This initial browning builds incredible flavor for your Smothered Chicken and Rice.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add butter and sauté diced onion, celery, and bell pepper until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic for another minute until fragrant. Don’t rush this step; good caramelization adds depth.
  3. Build Gravy: Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer, allowing the gravy to thicken slightly. This is the heart of your Smothered Chicken and Rice.
  4. Smother & Simmer: Return the seared chicken to the pot, nestling it into the gravy. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme. Cover and simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is nearly cooked through and tender.
  5. Add Rice: Stir in the long-grain white rice, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the simmering liquid. Cover tightly and continue to simmer for another 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Resist peeking too much!
  6. Finish Gravy: Remove the pot from heat. Gently stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated, creating a rich, creamy sauce. Check seasonings and adjust as needed. This creamy finish truly elevates your Smothered Chicken and Rice.
  7. Garnish & Serve: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and sliced green onions. Serve your Hearty Best Smothered Chicken and Rice warm for a truly comforting family meal.

Notes

Resist peeking at the rice while cooking to ensure even absorption and fluffy texture.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for best freshness.

Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for a gluten-free gravy.

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and green onions; pairs well with a crisp green salad.

Prepare chicken and gravy base up to two days ahead; finish with rice and cream just before serving.

Braise chicken low and slow an extra 15 minutes for incredibly fork-tender, melt-in-your-mouth results.

**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten

Find it online: https://tastetrend.net/hearty-best-smothered-chicken-and-rice-a-comfort-classic/