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Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

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3.9 from 8 reviews

Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken thighs cooked with onions, garlic, mushrooms, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce. This savory dish combines perfectly seasoned rice with rich milk and chicken broth for a hearty dinner that’s simple to prepare and deliciously satisfying.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1-1/2 cups)
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced (1 tablespoon)
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional, baby bella recommended)
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2-1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1-1/4 cups uncooked basmati rice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 gently packed cup freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Optional Ingredients for Serving

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (for creamier consistency)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Onion & Mushrooms: Melt the butter and heat the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until they turn golden and soft. Then add the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
  2. Add Chicken & Garlic: Stir in the bite-sized chicken pieces and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper (about 1/2 teaspoon each). Cook while stirring only occasionally, allowing the chicken to turn white on the outside, about 5 minutes. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
  3. Add Rice & Seasonings: Add the uncooked basmati rice to the skillet along with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to toast the rice slightly and blend the seasonings evenly.
  4. Make The Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in half of the milk until smooth, then add the remaining milk while whisking constantly. Pour in the chicken broth and continue whisking to incorporate all ingredients into a creamy sauce.
  5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Let cook gently for 10 to 12 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and become tender.
  6. Rest: Remove the lid. The rice should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed, with a small amount remaining around the edges. Quickly cover again and let the dish rest off the heat for 10 minutes; this helps the remaining liquid absorb fully and the flavors meld.
  7. Finish and Serve: Stir in half of the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed. Smooth the surface, sprinkle with the remaining cheese, cover, and let stand until the cheese melts. For a creamier texture, gradually stir in heavy cream while gently mixing. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and topped with sour cream if desired.

Notes

  • Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for tender and flavorful meat chunks. Chicken breasts can be substituted but may result in a drier texture.
  • Basmati rice is preferred for its fragrance and texture, but long-grain white rice can also be used.
  • If the rice is undercooked or there’s too much liquid remaining, cook uncovered for a few extra minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
  • Resting the dish off heat is crucial for final liquid absorption and achieving a creamy, tender consistency.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/smothered-chicken-and-rice-recipe/