This Smothered Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food — juicy, golden-browned chicken thighs nestled into a bed of fluffy rice that’s been simmered in a flavorful blend of garlic, onion, bell pepper, and savory broth. A one-skillet meal that’s hearty, simple, and sure to satisfy.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One-pan convenience — easy cleanup
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Affordable ingredients you already have on hand
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Flavor-packed with sautéed onions, garlic, and paprika
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Customizable for vegetarian or low-sodium diets
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Chicken:
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4 chicken thighs – Bone-in or boneless; delivers rich flavor and tender texture.
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2 tablespoons olive oil – For browning the chicken and sautéing vegetables.
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Salt and pepper – To season the chicken and enhance the overall flavor.
For the Rice:
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1 cup rice (white or brown) – The base of the dish; white rice cooks faster, while brown adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
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2 cups chicken broth – Adds depth and richness to the rice; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
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1 onion, chopped – Builds a savory base with sweetness as it cooks down.
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2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
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1 bell pepper, chopped – Provides sweetness and color.
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1 teaspoon paprika – Enhances the smoky, savory notes of the dish.
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Chopped parsley (for garnish) – Adds freshness and a burst of color just before serving.
Tips and Tricks
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Use a tight-fitting lid to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
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Brown rice may require more liquid and a longer cooking time (30–35 minutes).
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Deglaze the skillet with a splash of broth before adding rice to incorporate all flavors.
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Add crushed red pepper or cajun seasoning for a spicier twist.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with plant-based protein like seared tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
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Add Veggies: Stir in peas, spinach, or diced tomatoes during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
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Cheesy Version: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the top before serving.
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Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and season to taste.
Pairing Suggestions
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Side Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.
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Cornbread or Biscuits: Great for soaking up juices.
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Roasted Veggies: Try roasted carrots, zucchini, or green beans for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw in fridge and reheat on stovetop or microwave.
Popular Questions
Can I use boneless chicken thighs or breasts?
Yes! Boneless options work well but reduce searing time to avoid overcooking.
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What kind of rice is best for this dish?
Long-grain white rice cooks fastest. Brown rice adds a nutty texture but needs more time and broth.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes. It reheats well and tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.
Print
Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Juicy golden chicken thighs over fluffy rice simmered with garlic, onion, bell pepper, and savory broth. A hearty, one-pan comfort meal—simple and satisfying!
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Ingredients
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4 chicken thighs
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 cup white or brown rice
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2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 bell pepper, chopped
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Sear the Chicken
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Pat chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear the chicken thighs for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
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Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
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In the same skillet, add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
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Cook over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, until vegetables are softened and aromatic.
3. Toast the Rice and Add Broth
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Stir in rice and paprika. Let toast for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
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Pour in chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
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Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer the Chicken and Rice Together
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Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet over the rice mixture.
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Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until rice is tender and broth is absorbed.
5. Fluff and Serve
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Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with chopped parsley.
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Serve hot and enjoy your hearty, home-cooked meal!
Notes
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Great meal prep option for busy weeks.
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Use leftover rotisserie chicken to speed up prep.
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For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or hot sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
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