Smothered Chicken and Rice

A hearty Southern comfort food dish that will warm your soul on chilly nights! Who can resist tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy served over fluffy rice?

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup white rice

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
2. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth, milk, and thyme to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then return chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook rice according to package instructions.
6. Serve smothered chicken over rice, spooning gravy on top. Enjoy!

Popular Questions:

• Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

• Q: Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option?

A: Yes, you can use almond flour as a gluten-free alternative, but note that the texture may be different.

• Q: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version?

A: Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.

• Q: How can I make the gravy thicker?

A: You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the gravy to thicken it up.

• Q: Can I add vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms to this dish?

A: Yes, you can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables for extra flavor and nutrients.

Helpful Tips:

• Season the chicken with additional herbs and spices like paprika or onion powder for extra flavor.
• Add a splash of white wine to the gravy for a touch of acidity.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
• For a creamy twist, stir in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese to the gravy.

Expert Secrets:

• Cover the skillet while simmering to ensure the chicken stays moist and tender.
• If the gravy is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken up.
• For a richer flavor, brown the flour in the skillet before adding liquids to make the gravy.
• Use homemade chicken broth for a more flavorful dish.