Smothered Chicken and Rice

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Rich, soulful, and steeped in tradition, Smothered Chicken and Rice is the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth with every bite. Tender chicken is seasoned to perfection, browned, and simmered in a velvety onion gravy that’s poured generously over fluffy white rice. It’s a Southern classic that evokes memories of Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and cozy evenings at home.

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This recipe isn’t just about flavor—it’s about heart. The layers of seasoning, the slow simmer, the golden gravy—it all comes together to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is satisfying.

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🧾 Ingredients Table

Component Ingredient Amount
Protein Bone-in chicken thighs 3 pounds
Seasoning Blend Kosher salt 2 teaspoons
Coarse black pepper 2 teaspoons
Granulated onion 1 teaspoon
Granulated garlic 1 teaspoon
Lemon pepper 1 teaspoon
Chili powder 1 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper ¼ teaspoon
Cooking Base Neutral oil 2 teaspoons
Unsalted butter 6 tablespoons
Yellow onion (sliced) 1
All-purpose flour 6 tablespoons
Chicken bouillon powder 1 tablespoon
Unsalted chicken stock 4 cups
Serving Cooked white rice 6 cups

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the Pot
    Heat a large Dutch oven or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the Chicken
    Mix all spices in a bowl. Season chicken thoroughly, including under the skin.
  3. Brown the Chicken
    Add oil to the pot and brown chicken on both sides (about 6 minutes total). Set aside.
  4. Sauté the Onions
    Melt butter in the same pot. Add sliced onions and cook until soft and translucent (5–7 minutes), scraping up browned bits.
  5. Make the Gravy
    Stir in flour and bouillon powder. Slowly whisk in chicken stock to form a smooth gravy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Simmer the Chicken
    Bring gravy to a gentle boil. Return chicken to the pot, cover, and reduce heat. Simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until chicken is tender.
  7. Serve & Enjoy
    Spoon chicken and gravy over a bed of warm white rice. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tip: Want to add a twist? Try serving with buttery cornbread or adding a splash of hot sauce for extra kick.

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