Craving a comforting and easy dinner recipe? Try this Southern Smothered Chicken! Featuring juicy boneless chicken thighs, creamy cheddar and herbed chicken sauce, and perfectly cooked rice, this one-pan dish is a family favorite. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights. Discover the secret to delicious, home-cooked Southern cuisine with this easy smothered chicken recipe. Ideal for meal prep and sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:
- 6-8 boneless chicken thighs
- 2 cans (10.75 oz. each) condensed cream of cheddar soup
- 1 can (10.75 oz.) condensed cream of herbed chicken soup
- 3 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: bacon bits for garnish
Preparation:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350º F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of cheddar soup, cream of herbed chicken soup, and milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Add in the minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, and red pepper flakes. For an extra cheesy touch, you can stir in the grated cheddar cheese now or save it to sprinkle on top later.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread the cooked rice evenly on the bottom of the greased baking dish. Arrange the chicken thighs on top of the rice. Season the chicken liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and rice, ensuring everything is well-coated. If you didn’t mix the cheddar cheese into the sauce earlier, sprinkle it over the top now. For a crunchy, savory finish, you can also add bacon bits.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Southern Smothered Chicken hot, garnished with extra bacon bits if desired.
Cooking Tips:
- Boneless Thighs: Using boneless chicken thighs ensures quicker cooking and easier eating. They also tend to stay juicier than breasts.
- Rice Options: You can use either white or brown rice, depending on your preference. Brown rice adds a bit more texture and nutty flavor.
- Cheese Choices: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a great punch of flavor, but feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
This recipe is not only perfect for a family dinner but also ideal for meal prepping. It reheats wonderfully, making it a great option for leftovers. So, the next time you’re craving a hearty, homemade meal, give this Southern Smothered Chicken a try – it’s sure to be a hit!
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