Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice | Easy Comfort Food

 This delicious Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe is the ultimate in easy comfort food. Tender chicken pieces are simmered in a rich and flavorful creamy gravy and served over fluffy rice. This homemade dish is perfect for a satisfying family meal.

• Keyword Focus: Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice, Smothered Chicken Recipe, Chicken and Rice Recipe, Easy Chicken Dinner, Comfort Food, Homemade, Creamy Chicken, One-Pot Meal.

Recipe Details:

• Cuisine: Southern / American
• Course: Main Course
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
• Total Time: Approx. 45-55 minutes
• Yields: 4-6 servings
• Dietary Info: Can be adapted to be gluten-free (use gluten-free flour)

Ingredients:

• 4-6 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (or breasts, adjust cooking time)
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Butter
• 1 medium Onion, chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free alternative)
• 1 1/2 cups Chicken Broth
• 1/2 cup Milk or Half-and-Half (for extra creaminess)
• 1/4 cup Heavy Cream (optional, for richer sauce)
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Rosemary (optional)
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste
• Cooked Rice, for serving
• Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Equipment:

• Large skillet or Dutch oven with a lid
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions:

1. Season Chicken: Season the chicken thighs (or breasts) generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear Chicken: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
5. Add Creaminess and Seasoning: Stir in the milk or half-and-half (and heavy cream, if using), thyme, and rosemary (if using). Bring the gravy to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
6. Smother the Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the skillet and nestle it into the creamy gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes (for thighs) or 15-20 minutes (for breasts), or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
7. Check Seasoning: Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve: Serve the delicious creamy smothered chicken hot over fluffy cooked rice. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Enjoy this comforting and easy homemade Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice!