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Smothered Chicken Recipe

Smothered Chicken is the epitome of comfort food—tender, juicy chicken smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy that’s absolutely irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite, perfect for family dinners or any time you’re craving something indulgent.

This recipe combines succulent chicken with a velvety gravy made from onions, garlic, and a touch of seasoning, all simmered together until perfectly melded. The result? A mouthwatering meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or with your favorite veggies to complete this comforting plate of goodness.


Why This Smothered Chicken is a Must-Try

This dish takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something extraordinary. If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare, deeply flavorful, and guaranteed to please everyone, Smothered Chicken is the answer. Here’s why you’ll love it:

  • Rich and Flavorful: The gravy is packed with deep, savory flavors that complement the chicken perfectly.
  • Comforting: It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel cozy and content after every bite.
  • One-Pan Wonder: All you need is one skillet, making clean-up a breeze.
  • Versatile: It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or any of your favorite sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to make this mouthwatering Smothered Chicken:

  • Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal for this recipe.
  • Onions: Sliced onions add sweetness and depth to the gravy.
  • Garlic: Minced garlic gives the dish an aromatic boost.
  • Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the rich gravy.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds a velvety, smooth texture to the gravy.
  • Flour: To create a roux that thickens the gravy.
  • Butter: For sautéing and adding richness to the sauce.
  • Seasonings: A combination of paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper enhances the chicken and gravy.
  • Olive Oil: For searing the chicken to perfection.

How to Make Smothered Chicken

Making Smothered Chicken is simple and easy, but it results in a dish that feels luxurious. Follow these steps for a delicious, comforting meal:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, add onions and garlic, sautéing until softened. Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for another minute to make a roux.
  4. Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens.
  5. Smother the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the gravy over the top, and simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  6. Serve: Serve the smothered chicken with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes or rice, and drizzle with the savory gravy.

Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken

For the perfect Smothered Chicken, consider these helpful tips:

  • Sear the Chicken Well: Getting a nice golden brown crust on the chicken adds flavor and texture.
  • Adjust the Gravy: If the gravy gets too thick, simply add a little more chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
  • Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in chicken will give the gravy an even richer flavor, though boneless is quicker and easier.
  • Add Veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms or bell peppers to the gravy for extra flavor and texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Customize your Smothered Chicken with these variations:

  • Add Heat: Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the gravy.
  • Swap the Protein: You can use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs, or even pork chops for a twist on this classic dish.
  • Vegetarian Option: Try using tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish, though it will require a different approach for cooking and searing.

Smothered Chicken

This succulent chicken is smothered in a rich and flavorful gravy, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southern
Servings 4 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Spoon
  • Tongs

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 large onion sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp flour for roux
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper

Instructions
 

  • Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
  • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add onions and garlic, sauté until softened. Add flour to form a roux.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer until the gravy thickens.
  • Return chicken to the skillet and spoon gravy over the top. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or your choice of sides.

Notes

  • Feel free to add mushrooms or bell peppers to the gravy.
  • For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 40gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 750mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 12mg
Keyword chicken, comfort food, gravy
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