Why Make This Recipe
Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. With tender chicken, savory gravy, and fluffy rice, this recipe offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Plus, it uses basic ingredients that many people already have at home.
How to Make Smothered Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup gravy (prepared or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: herbs such as thyme or parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Meanwhile, cook the rice according to package instructions.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and stir in the gravy.
- Serve the gravy smothered chicken over a bed of fluffy rice.
- Optional: Garnish with herbs before serving.
How to Serve Smothered Chicken and Rice
Serve Smothered Chicken and Rice hot, straight from the skillet. You can place the chicken on a plate and spoon the gravy over it. A generous serving of rice underneath makes for a filling meal. For added flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley on top.
How to Store Smothered Chicken and Rice
To store leftovers, place the Smothered Chicken and Rice in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and label it with the date.
Tips to Make Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Make sure the chicken is cooked all the way through. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Feel free to add some vegetables to the dish, like peas or carrots, for extra nutrition and color.
- You can use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option, but cooking times may vary.
Variation
You can add different herbs and spices to change the flavor. Try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for a kick. You could also swap chicken for turkey or even use tofu for a vegetarian version.
FAQs
-
Can I use instant rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use instant rice. Just follow the package instructions for cooking it. -
Can I make the gravy from scratch?
Absolutely! You can make a simple gravy using butter, flour, and chicken broth. -
Is it okay to use leftover chicken?
Yes! Using leftover cooked chicken will cut down on the cooking time. Just heat it in the skillet with the gravy until warm.
Smothered Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Meanwhile, cook the rice according to package instructions.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and stir in the gravy.
- Serve the gravy smothered chicken over a bed of fluffy rice.
- Optional: Garnish with herbs before serving.