Description
This Healthy Smothered Chicken and Brown Rice combines tender, seasoned chicken thighs with a creamy mushroom sauce and fluffy brown rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, it’s packed with flavor and nutrients, offering a hearty yet wholesome meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
For the Rice
- 1 cup long-grain brown rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
- Season chicken thighs with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken thighs for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream, mixing until smooth.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld.
Step 3: Simmer the Chicken in the Sauce
- Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, ensuring they are partially submerged in the sauce.
- Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 4: Cook the Brown Rice
- In a medium pot, bring chicken broth to a boil.
- Add brown rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Plate a portion of brown rice and top with a chicken thigh and creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for added freshness and color. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove-Top Simmering
- Cuisine: American