Name: Easy Smothered Chicken: A Comforting and Wholesome Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs or breasts; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smothered chicken is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together tender, juicy chicken and a rich, flavorful gravy. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner to feed the family or a dish to warm your soul on a chilly night, this recipe delivers. The creamy, savory sauce elevates the chicken to a whole new level, making it a dish that is both satisfying and indulgent. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs or breasts
All-purpose flour
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Olive oil or butter
Onion
Garlic
Chicken broth
Heavy cream or milk
Worcestershire sauce
Fresh thyme or parsley (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Dredge the Chicken: Lightly coat each piece of chicken with flour, shaking off any excess.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant.
Make the Gravy: Stir in a bit of flour and cook for about a minute. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Add the Cream: Reduce the heat and stir in heavy cream or milk, along with Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
Combine and Simmer: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s well-coated with the gravy. Cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley for a touch of freshness. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a bit of heat.
Mushroom Gravy: Sauté mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy twist.
Lighter Option: Use milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the richness.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the chicken and gravy in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes! Bone-in chicken will take a bit longer to cook, but it will add more flavor to the dish.

What can I serve with smothered chicken?

Mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables all pair well with this dish.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dish, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Just be cautious not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster than thighs.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative.

How can I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?

Mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce, simmering until thickened.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the chicken first, then add it to the slow cooker with the gravy ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

What’s the best way to reheat smothered chicken?

Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would be great additions.

Conclusion

This easy smothered chicken recipe is a guaranteed hit for any occasion. With its rich, flavorful gravy and tender chicken, it’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to every bite. Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or with a side of vegetables, this meal is sure to be a family favorite. Try it out and enjoy a comforting homemade classic!

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