Description
Southern smothered chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a heartwarming tradition passed down through generations, often shared at family gatherings or Sunday dinners. The dish’s roots can be traced to African American soul food, with its rich gravy and slow-cooked chicken reflecting the comfort and warmth of Southern cooking.
Ingredients
- Chicken: Choose bone-in, skinless thighs or drumsticks for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Seasonings: Smoked paprika, seasoning salt, garlic powder, black pepper to create a flavorful base.
- Flour: All-purpose flour helps to thicken the gravy.
- Butter: Unsalted butter gives richness to the gravy.
- Olive Oil: Helps to sear the chicken to a golden brown.
- Onions: Sweet or yellow onions for that savory flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings depth and aroma.
- Fresh Thyme: Enhances the earthy tones in the dish.
- Chicken Stock: The foundation for a rich, savory gravy.
- Heavy Cream: Adds a creamy texture to the gravy.
Instructions
Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, season the chicken with smoked paprika, seasoning salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Let the chicken marinate for at least 3 hours or overnight for the best results.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 5 minutes per side until golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Gravy Base:
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until golden brown. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Then, stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Build the Gravy:
Gradually add the chicken stock, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Once thickened, stir in the heavy cream and thyme. Let the gravy simmer and season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer the Chicken:
Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, nestling it into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
6. Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through and the gravy is rich and smooth, remove from heat. Serve the chicken with a generous spoonful of gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Notes
Southern Smothered Chicken