Description
Southern smothered chicken delivers comfort on a plate with rich, creamy gravy embracing tender meat. Hearty flavors from Louisiana kitchens invite you to savor a classic soul food tradition.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 chicken thighs or chicken breasts
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Main Cooking Ingredients:
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Generously coat chicken pieces with a blend of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Lightly dust with flour, ensuring an even, thin layer covers the meat.
- Warm olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat (around 350°F). Carefully place chicken into the pan, searing each side until a rich golden-brown crust develops, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a separate plate.
- In the same skillet with remaining drippings, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant, releasing their aromatic oils.
- Sprinkle additional flour into the skillet, stirring continuously to create a smooth, thickening roux. Gradually pour in chicken broth, whisking consistently to prevent lumps and create a silky, uniform gravy.
- Gently return seared chicken to the skillet, nestling pieces into the bubbling gravy. Spoon sauce generously over the meat, ensuring complete coverage. Reduce heat and allow chicken to simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes until meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and becomes exceptionally tender.
- Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately while gravy remains warm and luxurious.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is evenly coated with seasoning for maximum flavor penetration and consistent taste in every bite.
- Pat chicken dry before dredging to help flour adhere better and create a crispier golden-brown exterior.
- For a gluten-free version, replace wheat flour with cornstarch or almond flour to maintain the dish’s rich texture and classic smothered chicken essence.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and prevent the gravy from becoming too salty, allowing the herb and spice nuances to shine through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg