One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice is a easy American (Southern) recipe that serves 4. 520 calories per serving. Recipe by Smokin' & Grillin with AB on YouTube.

Prep: 14 min | Cook: 44 min | Total: 1 hr 13 min

Cost: $26.98 total, $6.75 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs (cut into bite‑sized pieces after browning)
  • 1 tsp Salt (kosher or table salt)
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Rosemary Infused) (any infused oil may be used if unavailable)
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (cut into pieces)
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion (diced)
  • 2 large Garlic Cloves (minced)
  • 1.5 cup Long Grain White Rice (rinsed briefly)
  • 0.5 cup Sour Cream (full‑fat for best texture)
  • 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz, regular canned)
  • 0.25 cup Heavy Cream (adds richness)
  • 2 cup Chicken Broth (low‑sodium)
  • 1 cup Fresh Mushrooms (optional) (sliced; button or cremini work well)

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken

    Pat the chicken thighs dry, then sprinkle both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Heat Oil

    Place the Dutch oven over medium heat and add 2 tbsp of rosemary‑infused olive oil, swirling to coat the bottom.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Brown the Chicken

    Add the seasoned thighs skin (rough) side down and brown for 3‑4 minutes per side, turning once. Do not move them until a golden crust forms.

    Time: PT8M

  4. Rest Chicken

    Transfer the browned chicken to a paper plate and set aside.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Cut Chicken

    Using a sharp knife, cut the partially cooked thighs into bite‑sized pieces.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Melt Butter

    Add 2 tbsp unsalted butter to the same pot and melt over medium heat.

    Time: PT1M

  7. Sauté Onion

    Stir in the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 2‑3 minutes.

    Time: PT3M

  8. Add Garlic

    Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

    Time: PT1M

  9. Toast the Rice

    Stir in 1.5 cups long‑grain rice, coating each grain with the butter‑onion mixture, and toast for about 1 minute.

    Time: PT1M

  10. Prepare Creamy Base

    In a bowl, whisk together ½ cup sour cream, 1 can cream of chicken soup, and ¼ cup heavy cream until smooth.

    Time: PT3M

  11. Add Broth and Simmer

    Pour 2 cups chicken broth into the pot, increase heat to bring to a gentle simmer.

    Time: PT5M

  12. Incorporate Cream Mixture

    Stir the sour‑cream mixture into the simmering pot, combine well, and let it cook for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.

    Time: PT2M

  13. Return Chicken (and Mushrooms)

    Add the bite‑sized chicken pieces and, if using, 1 cup sliced mushrooms. Stir to distribute evenly.

    Time: PT1M

  14. Cover and Cook Through

    Reduce heat to low, cover the Dutch oven, and simmer for 22 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

    Time: PT22M

  15. Thicken the Gravy

    Remove the lid, increase heat to medium‑low, and simmer uncovered for 3 minutes to reduce the sauce to a creamy consistency.

    Time: PT3M

  16. Final Seasoning

    Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Turn off the heat.

    Time: PT1M

  17. Serve

    Spoon the creamy smothered chicken and rice onto plates and enjoy while hot.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
520
Protein
30 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
20 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Contains dairy, Contains gluten, Not vegan, Not vegetarian

Allergens: Dairy, Gluten

Last updated: April 7, 2026

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One Pan Smothered Chicken and Rice

Recipe by Smokin' & Grillin with AB

A comforting Southern-inspired one‑pot smothered chicken and rice. Boneless chicken thighs are browned, then simmered with butter, onion, garlic, rice, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth for a creamy, flavorful gravy. Optional mushrooms add earthiness. Ready in about 1 hour 15 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

EasyAmerican (Southern)Serves 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
20m
Prep
39m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 9m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$26.98
Total cost
$6.75
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Browning the chicken to develop fond
  • Deglazing and toasting the rice
  • Simmering covered until rice and chicken are fully cooked
  • Uncovering to reduce the gravy to the desired thickness

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot oil carefully to avoid burns.
  • Steam from the covered pot can cause burns; lift the lid away from you.
  • Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot Dutch oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of smothered chicken in Southern American cuisine?

A

Smothered chicken is a classic comfort dish from the American South, rooted in African‑American cooking traditions where chicken is browned, then simmered in a rich gravy. It became a staple at family gatherings and church potlucks, embodying the region’s love for hearty, saucy meals.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of smothered chicken in Southern cuisine?

A

In Louisiana, cooks often add Cajun spices and serve it over rice. In the Carolinas, a tomato‑based gravy may be used. Some versions include sliced okra or bell peppers, while others keep it simple with just onion, garlic, and a creamy base.

cultural
Q

How is smothered chicken traditionally served in the Southern United States?

A

Traditionally, smothered chicken is served hot over a bed of steamed white rice, sometimes accompanied by cornbread or collard greens. The creamy gravy is spooned generously over both the chicken and rice.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is smothered chicken traditionally associated with in Southern culture?

A

Smothered chicken is a go‑to dish for Sunday family dinners, church potlucks, holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving, and community festivals. Its comforting nature makes it popular for any occasion that calls for a warm, filling meal.

cultural
Q

What other Southern dishes pair well with smothered chicken and rice?

A

Side dishes such as buttery cornbread, collard greens, fried green tomatoes, or a simple cucumber salad complement the rich gravy of smothered chicken. A glass of sweet tea or a light lemonade balances the richness.

cultural
Q

What makes smothered chicken special or unique in Southern cuisine?

A

The dish’s hallmark is the “smothering” technique—browning the meat, then cooking it slowly in a creamy, seasoned gravy that absorbs all the browned flavors. This method creates a deep, comforting taste that’s distinct to Southern home cooking.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making smothered chicken from the YouTube channel Smokin' & Grillin with AB?

A

Common errors include over‑cooking the chicken during the browning stage, which dries it out, and burning the garlic, which adds bitterness. Also, forgetting to keep the pot covered during the simmer will result in undercooked rice.

technical
Q

Why does this smothered chicken recipe use a sour‑cream and cream of chicken mixture instead of a flour‑based roux?

A

The sour‑cream and cream of chicken soup provide a quick, creamy thickener without the extra step of making a roux, keeping the recipe one‑pot and faster while still delivering a rich, tangy gravy.

technical
Q

Can I make smothered chicken ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to a day ahead. Cool it quickly, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Smokin' & Grillin with AB specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Smokin' & Grillin with AB specializes in easy, approachable Southern‑style grilling and smoking recipes, focusing on one‑pot meals, backyard BBQ techniques, and simplifying classic comfort foods for home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Smokin' & Grillin with AB's approach to Southern cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Smokin' & Grillin with AB emphasizes minimal equipment, one‑pot methods, and real‑world backyard grilling tips, whereas many other channels may rely on elaborate setups or restaurant‑style plating. AB keeps the focus on flavor and practicality.

channel

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