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Southern Smothered Chicken

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Southern Smothered Chicken is a soul-warming comfort dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken cooked in a rich and flavorful gravy. This classic Southern recipe pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or buttery biscuits. The homemade gravy is infused with onions, garlic, and spices, creating a meal that’s hearty, satisfying, and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a richer gravy)
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chicken:
    • Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
    • Season them with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
    • Dredge each piece lightly in flour, shaking off the excess.
  • Sear the Chicken:
    • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the chicken pieces, skin-side down, and cook for 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • Make the Gravy Base:
    • In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the sliced onions. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
    • Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
    • Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the raw flour taste is gone.
  • Build the Gravy:
    • Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
    • Add the heavy cream (if using), thyme, smoked paprika, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
    • Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the gravy thickens slightly.
  • Smother the Chicken:
    • Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the gravy.
    • Cover and cook over low heat for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
  • Serve:
    • Serve the smothered chicken hot, with gravy generously spooned over the top. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits for the ultimate Southern meal.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add mushrooms or bell peppers to the gravy.
  • You can use boneless, skinless chicken for a lighter option, but the bone-in pieces add more flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
  • To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging and in the gravy.

Keywords: Southern Smothered Chicken, smothered chicken recipe, Southern comfort food, chicken with gravy, soul food chicken, homemade chicken gravy, skillet chicken, classic Southern recipes

Find it online: https://inqelab.com/southern-smothered-chicken/