Description
Succulent smothered chicken recipe brings Southern comfort to dinner tables with rich, creamy gravy and tender meat. Home cooks will savor this hearty dish that delivers classic soul food flavors in one satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 4 chicken thighs or chicken breasts
Primary Dry Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Aromatics and Liquids:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Generously coat chicken pieces with a robust blend of salt, pepper, and smoky paprika, ensuring complete coverage.
- Meticulously dredge seasoned chicken through a light dusting of flour, creating a delicate, crisp exterior.
- Warm a skillet with a harmonious combination of olive oil and butter, then carefully brown chicken until golden and crispy on both sides, approximately 4-5 minutes per side.
- Transfer beautifully seared chicken to a separate plate, maintaining its warmth and crisp texture.
- In the same skillet with residual pan drippings, gently sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, releasing their sweet aromatics.
- Sprinkle additional flour into the skillet, stirring continuously to form a smooth, rich roux that will thicken the upcoming gravy.
- Gradually pour chicken broth into the skillet, whisking consistently to prevent lumps and create a silky, luxurious gravy.
- Carefully nestle browned chicken pieces back into the gravy, ensuring they are partially submerged.
- Reduce heat, cover the skillet, and allow chicken to simmer gently for 25-30 minutes at low temperature, guaranteeing tender, fully cooked meat.
- Plate the succulent chicken alongside steamed rice or creamy mashed potatoes, generously drizzling the luscious gravy over the top.
Notes
- Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs to maximize flavor and keep the meat juicy during simmering.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary in the seasoning mix for added depth and complexity.
- Consider using gluten-free flour alternatives like almond or rice flour for those with wheat sensitivities.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to help redistribute the juices and ensure tender meat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg