Introduction
Smothered Chicken and Rice with Creamy Gravy is the epitome of Southern comfort food. This dish features tender, seasoned chicken breasts simmered in a creamy, savory gravy and served over fluffy rice. It’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a comforting midweek meal. With a touch of paprika, garlic, and sautéed onions, every bite bursts with warmth and flavor. Let’s explore this hearty recipe that is bound to become a staple at your dinner table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Gravy:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Cooked rice (about 2 cups)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Make the Gravy
- Sauté the Onions:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until they turn soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Gravy Ingredients:
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Simmer the Gravy:
- Bring the gravy mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Smother the Chicken
- Return Chicken to the Skillet:
- Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon the gravy generously over the chicken to ensure each piece is well-coated.
- Simmer and Cover:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer for 10-15 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the creamy gravy.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate the Dish:
- Serve the smothered chicken over a bed of freshly cooked rice.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a pop of color and an added burst of flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Chicken Options: Use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for added flavor, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
- Gravy Thickness: If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
- Rice Alternatives: Pair the chicken and gravy with mashed potatoes, cauliflower rice, or quinoa for a twist.
- Flavor Variations: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or diced tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal.
- Add a slice of cornbread or buttery dinner rolls to complete the Southern comfort experience.
- Serve with a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a lighter side.
Tips
- Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Thicken the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water during the simmering step.
- Seasoning Boost: For a richer flavor, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of thyme to the gravy.
- One-Pan Meal: Add uncooked rice directly to the skillet with extra broth, cover, and let it cook with the chicken for a one-pot meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 780mg
Conclusion
Smothered Chicken and Rice with Creamy Gravy is a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner idea, this recipe delivers on both flavor and comfort. The creamy gravy, tender chicken, and fluffy rice make every bite irresistibly delicious.
Print
Smothered Chicken and Rice with Creamy Gravy
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken and Gravy:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Cooked rice (about 2 cups)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Make the Gravy
- Sauté the Onions:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until they turn soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Gravy Ingredients:
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Simmer the Gravy:
- Bring the gravy mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Smother the Chicken
- Return Chicken to the Skillet:
- Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon the gravy generously over the chicken to ensure each piece is well-coated.
- Simmer and Cover:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer for 10-15 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the creamy gravy.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate the Dish:
- Serve the smothered chicken over a bed of freshly cooked rice.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a pop of color and an added burst of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 780mg
- Protein: 35g