Smothered Chicken and Rice is a delightful one-pan dish that combines tender chicken thighs with seasoned rice and vegetables for a heartwarming meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers comforting flavors and is sure to please the entire family.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the chicken to the skillet, skin-side down, and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and thyme, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
- Stir in the rice, allowing it to toast for about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Cover and reduce the heat to low, cooking for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Once done, remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy the comforting flavors of this smothered chicken and rice dish.
Variation
- Use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
- Add a pinch of saffron to the rice for a richer flavor.
- Incorporate some bell peppers for additional color and nutrients.
Cooking Notes
- Searing the chicken is essential for flavor development.
- Ensure the skillet is covered well to retain moisture while cooking the rice.
- To prevent rice from sticking, stir occasionally while simmering.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli for added greens.
- Pair with a chilled glass of white wine to complement the dish.
- Add a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips
- Make sure to season the chicken well before searing.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and burning.
- Prepare all ingredients in advance for a smooth cooking process.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 36 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio accordingly. - Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 3 months. - Can I add vegetables of my choice?
Absolutely, feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots. - What can I use if I’m out of chicken broth?
You can substitute with vegetable broth or use water with bouillon cubes.
Conclusion
This Smothered Chicken and Rice dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a meal full of depth and flavor. With its golden-brown chicken, aromatic rice, and complementary vegetables, it’s a recipe that delivers both satisfaction and comfort in every bite. Not only does it fill your home with inviting aromas, but it also brings joy to the dinner table with its delectable taste.
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Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Smothered Chicken and Rice is a delightful one-pan dish that combines tender chicken thighs with seasoned rice and vegetables for a heartwarming meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers comforting flavors and is sure to please the entire family.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the chicken to the skillet, skin-side down, and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and thyme, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
- Stir in the rice, allowing it to toast for about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Cover and reduce the heat to low, cooking for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Once done, remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy the comforting flavors of this smothered chicken and rice dish.
Notes
- For best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as they provide more flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning according to taste preferences.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of cream to the sauce just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
Keywords: Smothered Chicken, One-Pan Meal, Comfort Food
