This creamy smothered chicken is a real comfort food winner! Juicy chicken thighs are covered in a rich, savory sauce that makes every bite so satisfying. Pair it with fluffy rice for a complete meal!
I love how the rice soaks up all that delicious sauce; it practically does a happy dance on my plate! Dinner just got a whole lot easier and tastier with this simple recipe!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs give great flavor and juicy meat. If you prefer, boneless, skinless thighs or breasts work too, just cook for a shorter time.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, just keep in mind it won’t be as thick.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is fantastic, but store-bought works well too. If you want a lower-sodium option, look for low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt level.
Thyme: Fresh thyme has a lovely flavor, but dried thyme is an easy alternative. You can also try other herbs like oregano or rosemary if you like their flavor.
Rice: White rice is simple, but you could use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option. Adjust cooking times as needed since brown rice takes longer to cook.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking chicken thighs properly is key to juicy results. Start by searing them until golden brown for extra flavor. Make sure to check they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer if you have one for best results!
- Cook skin-side down first until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes before removing.
- Simmer in the sauce until tender, covering helps retain moisture.
Creamy Smothered Chicken with Easy Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy smothered chicken takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30-40 minutes to cook. You’ll have a delightful dinner ready in just about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. This adds great flavor right from the beginning!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring often to avoid burning.
4. Make the Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir well and cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while constantly stirring to avoid lumps. Add the heavy cream, thyme, and paprika. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer the Chicken:
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The sauce will thicken slightly!
6. Prepare the Rice:
If you haven’t cooked the rice yet, now’s a good time! Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add your cooked rice. Stir well to heat through and to coat the rice in butter.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
To plate, serve the smothered chicken over the warm buttery rice. Don’t forget to spoon extra creamy sauce on top! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a colorful finish.
Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to warm your heart and delight your tastebuds!
FAQ for Creamy Smothered Chicken with Easy Rice
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work just fine. Just keep in mind that they will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I Make This with Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts as a lighter option! Be sure to adjust the cooking time and check for doneness at around 15-20 minutes, as chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to rehydrate the sauce if needed.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may not be as thick or rich. To achieve a similar creaminess using milk, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken it up!
