Grandma’s Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting Southern classic. This one-pan dish combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and bold seasonings, creating a meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a timeless favorite.
Ingredients
- Chicken and Rice:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Sear the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown. Set aside. - Layer the Dish:
Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the baking dish. Layer the diced onion and chopped bell pepper over the rice. - Make the Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well. - Assemble and Bake:
Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the vegetables and rice. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken and rice. Cover tightly with aluminum foil. - Bake and Rest:
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrients (per serving)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fat: ~10g
- Fiber: ~2g
Enjoy this warm, creamy, and flavorful dish as a perfect Southern comfort food staple.
Grandma’s Smothered Chicken and Rice: A Southern Classic for Every Occasion
Grandma’s Smothered Chicken and Rice is a cherished Southern dish that has stood the test of time. Known for its rich flavors, creamy texture, and heartwarming appeal, this one-pan meal is a go-to for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or special celebrations. Beyond its delectable taste, this dish embodies the traditions and comfort of Southern cooking, bringing people together with every bite.
A Dish Rooted in Tradition
Southern cuisine is deeply tied to tradition, and smothered chicken and rice exemplifies this heritage. The roots of the dish trace back to the kitchens of Southern families where simple, wholesome ingredients were transformed into hearty, satisfying meals. The idea of “smothering” chicken—a method of slow cooking meat with a sauce or gravy—has long been a staple in the South, ensuring tenderness and flavor.
The inclusion of rice makes the dish even more economical and filling, a quality that was essential in earlier times when feeding large families was a priority. Over the years, variations of the recipe have emerged, but Grandma’s Smothered Chicken and Rice remains a beloved classic for its balance of simplicity and bold taste.
The Magic of One-Pan Cooking
One of the standout features of this dish is its convenience. As a one-pan meal, it minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor by allowing all the ingredients to cook together. The rice absorbs the juices from the chicken, along with the creamy sauce, creating a dish where every bite is infused with layered flavors.
This method of cooking also ensures efficiency, making it a favorite among busy families. Whether you’re hosting a Sunday dinner or need a comforting meal after a long day, this recipe comes together with ease, saving time without compromising on taste.
Layers of Flavor and Texture
What sets Grandma’s Smothered Chicken and Rice apart is the interplay of flavors and textures. The chicken breasts, seared to golden perfection before baking, provide a hearty base. The rice, cooked in a mixture of chicken broth and creamy soups, becomes tender and infused with savory goodness. Diced onion and chopped green bell pepper add subtle sweetness and a bit of crunch, elevating the dish beyond basic comfort food.
Seasonings like paprika and garlic powder further enhance the flavor profile, offering warmth and depth. These simple ingredients come together harmoniously, proving that a great dish doesn’t require complexity—just the right balance of components.
Versatility and Customization
Another appeal of Grandma’s Smothered Chicken and Rice is its versatility. While the classic recipe uses chicken breasts, it can easily be adapted to include other cuts, such as chicken thighs or drumsticks, for a richer flavor. Some cooks like to add mushrooms, celery, or even a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra indulgence.
The dish can also accommodate dietary preferences. For example, those looking to reduce sodium can opt for low-sodium soups and broth. Brown rice can be substituted for white rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, although it will require adjustments to the cooking time and liquid ratios.
Why It’s a Comfort Food Favorite
Comfort food is more than just sustenance—it’s an experience. Grandma’s Smothered Chicken and Rice embodies this sentiment by offering warmth and familiarity in every bite. The creamy, savory sauce and tender chicken evoke memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. For many, this dish is a nostalgic reminder of childhood, when life was simpler, and meals were shared around a bustling dining table.
Additionally, the aroma that fills the kitchen as this dish bakes is undeniably comforting. It’s the kind of meal that brings a sense of anticipation, drawing family members to the table before it’s even served.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Despite its rustic roots, this dish is versatile enough for both casual dinners and more formal occasions. Its presentation—a golden-brown chicken nestled atop creamy rice and vibrant vegetables—is as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad, cornbread, or sautéed greens for a complete meal that showcases Southern hospitality at its finest.
Tips for Success
To ensure your smothered chicken and rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:
- Sear the chicken properly: Searing locks in juices and adds a layer of caramelized flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Use a heavy-duty baking dish: A sturdy 9×13-inch pan ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Seal tightly with foil: Covering the dish traps steam, helping the rice cook evenly and preventing it from drying out.
- Let it rest: Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Smothered Chicken and Rice is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of Southern culinary traditions and the joy of gathering around a shared meal. Its rich flavors, creamy texture, and comforting appeal make it a timeless favorite for families everywhere. Whether you’re recreating the dish as a nostalgic tribute to your grandmother’s kitchen or discovering it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your own culinary repertoire.
The next time you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and warmth, turn to Grandma’s Smothered Chicken and Rice. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that promises to create memories and bring smiles to the faces of everyone at the table. After all, some of the best dishes are the ones that remind us of home.
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Smothered Chicken and Rice
Description
Grandma’s Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting Southern classic. This one-pan dish combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and bold seasonings, creating a meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a timeless favorite.
Ingredients
- Chicken and Rice:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Sear the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown. Set aside. - Layer the Dish:
Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the baking dish. Layer the diced onion and chopped bell pepper over the rice. - Make the Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well. - Assemble and Bake:
Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the vegetables and rice. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken and rice. Cover tightly with aluminum foil. - Bake and Rest:
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Category: Lunch