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Southern Smothered Chicken

Southern Smothered Chicken: Creamy Comfort You'll Crave

Indulge in Southern Smothered Chicken, a comforting dish that combines tender chicken and creamy gravy for a family meal you'll crave.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
For the Gravy
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour
  • 1 tablespoon paprika can be swapped with smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder fresh garlic can also be used
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder use fresh onions for texture
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon salt can be reduced for dietary needs
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper omit or decrease for a milder dish
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or bacon grease bacon grease adds smoky flavor
For Flavor & Texture
  • 1 medium onion sauté until translucent
  • 2 cloves garlic (fresh, minced) do not burn during sautéing
  • 2 cups chicken broth low-sodium options are available
  • 1 cup heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce soy sauce can be used as a substitute
  • 1 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme adjust based on freshness
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons parsley (for garnish) enhances presentation

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Oven
  • Medium bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Dredge the chicken thighs and drumsticks in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess flour.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil or bacon grease. Sear the chicken pieces for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown.
  5. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and sauté them for about 5 minutes until translucent.
  6. Add minced garlic to the sautéed onions and stir for an additional minute without burning it.
  7. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of reserved seasoned flour into the onion and garlic mixture, stirring well.
  8. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
  9. Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme into the gravy, letting it simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
  10. Return the chicken pieces to the skillet, skin-side up, submerged in the creamy gravy.
  11. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
  12. Remove the skillet from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 32gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 75mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For freezing, use a well-sealed freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

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