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This Smothered Chicken recipe takes me right back to my grandmother's kitchen. The way those chicken pieces slowly cook in that rich onion gravy fills my house with memories. It's my go to comfort meal when my family needs something warm and filling. My kids know when they smell those onions cooking that something special is happening in the kitchen.
Pure Comfort in a Pan
I love how everything comes together in one pan. The chicken gets so tender it practically falls off the bone and that gravy soaks into everything on your plate. My daughter always asks for extra gravy for her mashed potatoes. Some nights I make a double batch just so we have leftovers for lunch the next day.
What You Need
- Chicken: Get bone in thighs and drumsticks they have the best flavor trust me on this
- Flour: Regular all purpose for coating and thickening that gravy
- Spices: My blend includes onion powder garlic powder salt pepper poultry seasoning and paprika
- Onions: Slice them thin they melt right into the gravy
- Chicken Bouillon: My secret weapon for extra rich gravy
- Milk: Makes the gravy silky smooth
- Chicken Broth: The heart of our gravy
- Oil: For frying I use vegetable oil
- Fresh Parsley: Adds a bit of color and freshness
Let's Get Cooking
- Season It Up
- Mix your flour with all those spices. Save some of this magic dust for the gravy later.
- Coat Your Chicken
- Roll each piece in that seasoned flour get it well coated.
- Get It Golden
- Brown your chicken in hot oil about 4 minutes each side. Don't rush this part those golden bits are pure flavor.
- Onion Time
- Cook those onions in the same pan until they're soft and golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing.
- Gravy Magic
- Sprinkle in your reserved seasoned flour whisk in broth and milk. Keep stirring we don't want any lumps.
- Bring It Together
- Nestle that chicken back in cover it up and let it simmer. Give it about 25 minutes turning now and then.
- The Finish Line
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and get ready for some happy faces around your table.
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Tips From My Kitchen
Take your chicken out of the fridge early lets it cook more evenly. When you're making the gravy keep that whisk moving lumps are nobody's friend. Sometimes I cook up some bacon with the onions when I'm feeling extra indulgent.
How to Serve It Up
In our house this chicken never shows up without a big pile of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. That gravy needs something to land on. I usually throw together some quick greens or roasted vegetables on the side. My husband says the biscuits are mandatory for soaking up every last drop of gravy.
Saving Some For Later
Leftovers keep beautifully in the fridge for three days if they last that long. Just warm them up slowly in a pan add a splash of broth if the gravy gets too thick. You can freeze portions too perfect for busy weeknights just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Kitchen Questions
Yes you can use skin on chicken the skin just gets extra tender in the gravy. No chicken broth? Stock works great or even water with extra bouillon. Don't worry if you're out of poultry seasoning just use some sage and thyme instead. The flavors will still be delicious.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Should I leave the skin on the chicken?
It's better to remove the skin for this recipe. Since the chicken cooks in liquid after browning, the skin becomes soft and doesn't maintain a crispy texture.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy gravy texture.
- → What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can use chicken stock, vegetable stock, or mix 2 cups water with 2 teaspoons bouillon powder. Each option will provide similar flavor.
- → Why do we reserve some of the seasoned flour?
The reserved seasoned flour is used to make the gravy, adding extra flavor and helping to thicken the sauce properly.
- → What should I serve with this chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits to soak up the gravy. Add green vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Southern Smothered Chicken is a classic comfort dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich, creamy onion gravy. Seasoned and carefully prepared, this recipe delivers a hearty and flavorful meal that embodies traditional Southern cooking techniques.