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Smothered Chicken

Smothered Chicken So Good It Feels Like Magic

recipesbook24
SmotheredChicken recipe full of rich, creamy gravy and tender chicken—easy to make,comforting, and perfect for a delicious homemade meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southern, American
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
  • Tender juicy, and perfect for soaking up that creamy gravy.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • Used for lightly dredging the chicken to give it that golden crispy edge.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Adds a warm depth and subtle smokiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Essential for building flavor from the ground up.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • For that rich velvety base.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Helps achieve a golden sear without burning the butter.
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • Key to that classic savory onion gravy flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Thickens the gravy into something magical.
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • The foundation of your gravy—go for low-sodium if possible.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
  • Brings that creamy luscious texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Adds an herbaceous touch that complements the richness.
  • Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Tips on Swaps:

  • No heavy cream? Use whole milk or even half-and-half for a lighter finish.
  • Gluten-free? Substitute a gluten-free flour blend for dredging and thickening.
  • More veggies? Mushrooms or bell peppers make flavorful add-ins to stretch the dish further.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

  • Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the flour stick and ensures a better sear.
  • In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Dredge each chicken thigh (or breast) in the seasoned flour, coating both sides lightly. Shake off any excess.
  • Pro Tip: Don’t skip this step! Light dredging adds a subtle crust that holds up beautifully under the creamy onion gravy.

Step 2: Sear to Golden Perfection

  • Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot:
  • Add the chicken pieces to the pan (in batches if needed).
  • Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown. You’re not fully cooking them yet—just locking in flavor.
  • Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

  • In the same skillet (don’t clean it—you want those flavorful brown bits!), add:
  • Sliced onions and sauté for about 5–7 minutes, until soft and lightly caramelized.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Bonus Flavor Boost: Add a splash of chicken broth while scraping the pan to deglaze—it lifts all that rich flavor from the bottom.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

  • Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  • Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and thyme, and let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until the gravy thickens slightly.

Step 5: Smother and Simmer

  • Return the seared chicken (plus any juices) to the pan. Spoon some of the gravy over each piece.
  • Cover and reduce heat to low.
  • Let simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the gravy is silky and rich.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  • Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
  • Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles—anything that can soak up that heavenly gravy.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving)
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 35g
Keyword Smothered Chicken