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.
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.
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
- Prep the Pot
Heat a large Dutch oven or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. - Season the Chicken
Mix all spices in a bowl. Season chicken thoroughly, including under the skin. - Brown the Chicken
Add oil to the pot and brown chicken on both sides (about 6 minutes total). Set aside. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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.
