Savory Smothered Chicken Rice (Print-Friendly Version)

Juicy chicken in creamy gravy served over tender rice; simple, comforting, and ready in under 40 minutes.

# What You’ll Need to Make This:

→ Chicken & Gravy

01 - 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
03 - 1 onion, finely chopped
04 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
06 - 480 ml low-sodium chicken broth
07 - 120 ml heavy cream
08 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
09 - 1 teaspoon paprika
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Rice

11 - 200 g long-grain white rice
12 - 480 ml water or chicken broth
13 - Pinch of salt

# How to Prepare:

01 - Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken skin-side down for 5–6 minutes until golden, then flip and cook an additional 4–5 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
02 - In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
03 - Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring a smooth mixture. Simmer, stirring, until the sauce thickens, about 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
04 - Return chicken thighs to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
05 - While the chicken simmers, bring water or chicken broth and a pinch of salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
06 - Divide cooked rice among serving bowls. Top each portion with a chicken thigh and spoon over creamy gravy. Serve immediately.

# Extra Tips:

01 - For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk.
02 - Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days.
03 - Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to maintain moisture.
04 - Enhance flavor by adding mushrooms, peas, or spinach to the gravy.