Easy Smothered Chicken and Rice Dinner Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless thighs. They’re juicy and add great flavor. You can substitute with chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily, so watch the cooking time.

Paprika: This spice adds beautiful color and a mild sweetness. If you want a kick, try smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or cayenne pepper for heat.

Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half and half works well, or use coconut milk for dairy-free.

Herbs: Dried thyme is optional, but it enhances flavor. You can replace it with Italian seasoning or basil if you prefer something different.

Rice: White rice is the classic choice, but feel free to use brown rice or even quinoa for a healthier alternative.

How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?

Getting perfectly cooked chicken is key to this dish. Here’s how you can do it:

• Season Generously: Make sure you coat the chicken evenly with your spices before cooking. This enhances the flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the chicken in batches. This helps it sear nicely instead of steaming.
• Cook Just Right: Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove it from the skillet as soon as it’s cooked to avoid drying.

Easy Smothered Chicken and Rice Dinner

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil

For the Vegetables and Sauce:

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large tomato, diced (or 1/2 cup diced canned tomatoes)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half and half)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)

For Serving:

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Easy Smothered Chicken and Rice Dinner will take about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook. So, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish for a delicious meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken:

In a medium bowl, take those chicken chunks and sprinkle them evenly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good toss to coat every piece well!

2. Sear the Chicken:

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear them until they’re nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, diced celery, and minced garlic. Sauté them together until the onion is soft and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. It’s starting to smell delicious!

4. Add the Tomato:

Add the diced tomato to the skillet and let it cook for another 2 minutes, softening up and adding more flavor to the mix.

5. Make the Sauce:

Pour in the chicken broth, bringing everything to a simmer. Don’t forget to scrape the bottom of the pan to lift off all those tasty browned bits!

6. Finish the Sauce:

Add the heavy cream, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. It should look and smell amazing!

7. Combine and Cook:

Now, return the browned chicken pieces back into the skillet. Spoon that luscious sauce over the chicken, letting it simmer with the sauce for about 5 more minutes to meld all those flavors.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the smothered chicken hot over a fluffy bed of cooked white rice. Garnish generously with some freshly chopped parsley for that beautiful touch!

Enjoy your warm, creamy, and flavorful Easy Smothered Chicken and Rice Dinner!

FAQ for Easy Smothered Chicken and Rice Dinner

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs add more moisture and flavor, chicken breasts can work too. Just be mindful of cooking time; breasts may cook faster, so check for doneness and avoid drying them out.

How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

You can use skinless chicken breasts for less fat, switch to brown rice for added fiber, or even use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Opt for low-fat cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream to cut calories.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. To serve, reheat gently on the stove and serve over freshly cooked rice for the best texture.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Enjoy again just as delicious!