Name: Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 cups cooked white rice; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Tender pan-seared chicken thighs simmered in a rich, creamy gravy and served over fluffy rice — this soul-warming dish is the ultimate comfort food for any night of the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon butter

1 small yellow onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

2 cups cooked white rice

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.

I sear the chicken, skin-side down, for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown, then set them aside.

In the same skillet, I add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes.

I stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute.

Then I sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly to form a roux, cooking it for about 1 to 2 minutes.

I slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream and thyme, and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Next I return the chicken to the skillet, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 25 to 30 minutes until tender.

I serve the smothered chicken over warm cooked rice and spoon the creamy gravy generously over the top.

I garnish with chopped parsley if I want to add a fresh touch.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 460 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes switch up the protein by using boneless, skinless thighs or even chicken breasts for a leaner option. If I want to add vegetables, I toss in sliced mushrooms or spinach into the gravy before simmering. For a bit of spice, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes. I’ve also tried swapping out the white rice for mashed potatoes or even pasta when I want a different base.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place the chicken and gravy in a skillet over medium-low heat and add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave works too, but I do it in short intervals, stirring in between to keep the sauce smooth. I don’t recommend freezing this dish as the cream may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in thighs?

Yes, I can use boneless thighs or chicken breasts, but I watch the cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in pieces.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

I’ve used half-and-half or a mix of milk and a bit of butter when I’m out of heavy cream. It won’t be as rich but still tastes great.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, since it contains flour. But I can use a gluten-free flour blend to make it suitable.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day ahead. The flavors develop even more, and it reheats beautifully on the stove.

What type of rice works best?

I like to use plain white rice, but jasmine or basmati adds a nice fragrance. Brown rice works too for a more wholesome twist.

Conclusion

Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is one of those dishes I keep coming back to. It’s simple, comforting, and full of flavor. Whether I’m cooking for my family or just want something cozy and satisfying, this recipe always hits the spot. It’s the kind of meal that makes home feel like home.