Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice: A Homestyle Dinner (Print Version)
Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice: an easy recipe for a comforting weeknight dinner. Enjoy rich, flavorful chicken and rice your family will crave!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
Dietary: None (Contains dairy)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Players
01 -
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
02 -
1 cup long-grain white rice
03 -
2 cups chicken broth (for rice)
→ Creamy Sauce Essentials
04 -
1 tbsp olive oil (for searing & sautéing)
05 -
1 large yellow onion, chopped
06 -
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
08 -
1.5 cups chicken broth (for sauce)
09 -
1 cup heavy cream
→ Flavor Boosters
10 -
1 tsp dried thyme
11 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
12 -
Salt & black pepper to taste
→ Finishing Touches
13 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
# Instructions:
01 -
First, pat those chicken thighs dry – seriously, it helps them get a beautiful sear, which means more flavor for your chicken. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of that smoked paprika. While they're chilling, get your rice cooking according to package directions. I usually do 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of broth, but check your bag! This is where I sometimes forget to salt the water, leading to bland rice later, so don't be like me!
02 -
Heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's shimmering, carefully place the chicken thighs in a single layer. Let them sear for about 4-5 minutes per side until they're golden brown and wonderfully crispy. Don't overcrowd the pan, or you won't get that good color! I learned that the hard way when I tried to rush it once, and ended up with sad, pale chicken. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet (don't clean it, those brown bits are flavor!), add a little more oil if needed. Toss in your chopped onion and cook until it's softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook