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A hearty plate of smothered chicken and rice with golden-brown chicken smothered in rich gravy, served alongside fluffy rice, garnished with fresh herbs, with a backdrop of rustic tableware and warm lighting, showcasing a comforting home-cooked meal.

Easy Weeknight Smothered Chicken and Rice

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A comforting and hearty chicken and rice casserole featuring tender chicken smothered in gravy, topped with cheese, and served over fluffy rice.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Sear chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  4. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  5. In a baking dish, spread rice evenly. Place seared chicken on top of rice. Pour gravy with onions over chicken and rice.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add chopped herbs or sliced mushrooms before baking.
  • Use fast-cook rice if short on time.
  • Can be cooked in a slow cooker for convenience—layer ingredients and cook on low for 6 hours.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Method: Baking, Searing
  • Cuisine: Comfort Food
  • Diet: Gluten-Free option available

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 540 Kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg