Flavors Worth Savoring
As autumn’s chill sets in, a warm, hearty meal is just what you need. Smothered chicken recipe, a Southern favorite, is perfect for this time of year. It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to many.
Whether you’ve had it since childhood or are trying it for the first time, smothered chicken is a treat. It’s a journey to the heart of the South, with its rich flavors and tender chicken.
Key Takeaways
- Smothered chicken is a beloved Southern comfort food featuring juicy chicken in a rich, savory gravy.
- Bone-in chicken thighs are often used for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- The recipe can be prepared on the stovetop, in the oven, or in a slow cooker for convenience.
- Essential ingredients include seasonings, olive oil, onions, and chicken broth.
- Smothered chicken is a hearty, budget-friendly dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Understanding the Art of Smothered Chicken
Smothered chicken is a favorite dish from the American South, especially in soul food. It’s made by cooking chicken in a rich, savory gravy. This makes the chicken tender and full of flavor.
Origins of Southern Smothered Chicken
The history of southern smothered chicken comes from African-American cuisine. It was a way to use what they had to feed their families. The gravy made the chicken tender and the flavors blended perfectly.
What Makes Chicken “Smothered”
The cooking method is what makes chicken smothered. First, the chicken is seasoned and browned. Then, it’s covered in a flavorful gravy. This makes the chicken tender and the sauce velvety.
Essential Cooking Techniques
To make great smothered chicken, you need a few key techniques. Seasoning the chicken well is important for flavor. Browning it adds a nice crust. And making a rich gravy from the pan drippings is the final touch.
Classic Southern Smothered Chicken Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting and flavorful chicken dish from the South, try this smothered chicken recipe. It features tender chicken thighs that are browned and then simmered in a rich gravy. The gravy is made with caramelized onions, garlic, and spices.
The smothering technique cooks the chicken low and slow in the gravy. This makes the chicken tender and the dish full of flavor. It’s a mix of southern fried chicken and chicken and gravy that we all love.
Ingredients:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons blackened seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons bacon drippings
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
- 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 1/2 cup half-and-half
- Poultry seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, breadcrumbs, and blackened seasoning. Coat the chicken thighs evenly on all sides.
- Cook the bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon, keeping the drippings.
- In the drippings, brown the chicken thighs on both sides. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side. Then, set the chicken aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter with the bacon drippings. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour to make a roux. Cook until lightly golden, 2-3 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken stock and bouillon cube. Scrape the bottom of the pan. Simmer until thickened, 5-7 minutes.
- Put the chicken back in the gravy. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes. The chicken should be tender and falling off the bone.
- Stir in the half-and-half and season with spices. Taste and adjust as needed.
- Serve the smothered chicken hot. Garnish with crispy bacon. Enjoy with sides like mashed potatoes or collard greens.
This smothered chicken recipe is the ultimate comfort food. It offers a perfect mix of savory chicken and creamy gravy. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a special family gathering.
Ingredients and Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To make the perfect Southern-style smothered chicken, you need a few key ingredients and kitchen tools. Let’s explore what you’ll need:
Must-Have Seasonings and Spices
- Salt and black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts
For the best results, choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. These cuts are flavorful and soak up the gravy well. You can also mix chicken thighs and drumsticks for more variety.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
You’ll need a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or skillet for searing and simmering. A meat thermometer is crucial to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F. A sharp knife and cutting board make prep work easy.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs | 6 to 8 pieces |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 4 to 6 cloves |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Chicken stock | 2 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Canola oil | 2 tablespoons |
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to make delicious Southern smothered chicken. For the full recipe and tips, visit iheartrecipes.com.
Creamy Mushroom Gravy Smothered Chicken Recipe
Take your comfort food to the next level with this smothered chicken breast recipe and creamy mushroom gravy. It adds earthy, savory mushroom flavors, making it a rich and satisfying meal.
The secret to this recipe is the flavorful gravy. It starts with sautéing mushrooms and onions until they’re caramelized. Then, a roux is made by whisking in flour, followed by chicken broth and cream or sour cream. This creates a creamy mushroom gravy that coats the smothered chicken perfectly.
| Servings | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 30 minutes |
This comfort food chicken dish is a mix of savory and creamy flavors. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
“The creamy mushroom gravy really takes this smothered chicken recipe to the next level. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.”
If you love smothered chicken breast or the chicken and mushroom sauce combo, this recipe will be a hit. It’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food chicken experience.
Mastering the Perfect Gravy
Making the perfect chicken gravy can take your homemade smothered chicken to the next level. The secret to a smooth, tasty gravy is in a few easy steps. Start by mixing the flour into the fat from cooking the chicken and onions. This makes the base of your gravy, called a roux.
Then, slowly add your chicken stock, whisking well to avoid lumps. Keep the gravy simmering and stirring until it coats the back of a spoon but still flows.
Gravy Troubleshooting Tips
- If your gravy is too thick, add a bit more chicken stock to get it right.
- For a thinner gravy, simmer it longer, stirring often, until it thickens.
- Check the flavor and adjust with salt, pepper, or spices to taste.
Achieving the Right Consistency
The perfect gravy should coat the back of a spoon but still flow. This makes it coat your smothered chicken beautifully and stay smooth. Follow these tips to master the chicken gravy recipe and elevate your smothered chicken.
“The secret to a perfect gravy is patience and a watchful eye. Slowly building the flavors and getting the gravy consistency just right is what separates an average gravy from an exceptional one.”
Grandma’s Traditional Smothered Chicken Recipe
Grandma’s smothered chicken is a Southern classic loved by many. It’s tender chicken smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy. This dish takes you back to Grandma’s kitchen.
The secret to this recipe is slow cooking. It makes the chicken tender and flavorful. A cast-iron skillet is key for even heat and deep flavors.
To make Grandma’s smothered chicken, you’ll need:
- 3.5 lbs of chicken pieces (a combination of thighs and legs, skin-on)
- 1.5 yellow onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp of minced garlic
- 3 tbsp of butter
- 2.5 cups of chicken broth
- 2 oz of half & half
- 2 oz of vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp of seasoned salt
- 2 tsp of black pepper
- 1 tbsp of onion powder
- 1 tbsp of garlic powder
- 1 tbsp of paprika
- 2 tsp of poultry seasoning
- 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour
First, sauté the onions in a cast-iron skillet until they’re half-cooked. Then, add the garlic and cook for another minute or two. Next, coat the chicken in flour and brown it on both sides.
After browning the chicken, make the gravy. Add the chicken broth and half & half slowly, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 30-35 minutes to thicken.
Best served over white rice or mashed potatoes. The gravy soaks into the sides, making it a comforting meal. This recipe is a true family favorite.
“Grandma’s smothered chicken is the ultimate comfort food – it warms the soul and brings back so many fond memories of family gatherings and delicious, homemade meals.”
Cast Iron Skillet Smothered Chicken
The secret to perfect smothered chicken is the cast iron skillet. It keeps the chicken juicy and tender. The skillet’s natural nonstick surface also makes the chicken golden and flavorful.
Benefits of Using Cast Iron
Cooking with a cast iron skillet has many advantages. It cooks the chicken evenly and keeps the gravy warm. It also adds a unique iron flavor to the dish.
Seasoning and Care Tips
- Regularly season your cast iron skillet with a thin layer of cooking oil to build up a natural nonstick patina.
- Avoid using soap when cleaning; instead, scrub the skillet with hot water and a stiff brush, then dry it immediately to prevent rusting.
- For stubborn stuck-on food, use a mixture of coarse salt and vegetable oil to gently scrub the surface.
- Always dry the skillet thoroughly after washing and apply a light coating of oil to the interior before storing.
Using a cast iron skillet can make your smothered chicken even better. With proper care, this cookware will be a key part of your kitchen.
Slow Cooker Smothered Chicken Recipe
If you love smothered chicken but want it easy, try the slow cooker version. This slow cooker smothered chicken recipe makes tender, flavorful chicken with creamy gravy. And it’s all done by your crockpot.
Start by browning the chicken on the stovetop. This locks in juices and gives a nice sear. Then, mix a rich gravy with pantry staples before adding it to the slow cooker.
Put the chicken and gravy in the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. When it’s done, the chicken will be tender and the internal temperature will be 165°F.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts or Thighs | 2 1/2 lbs |
| Dry Onion Mix | 2 oz |
| Chicken Gravy Mix | 0.87 oz |
| Chicken Granules | 1 tsp |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 10.5 oz |
| Water | 1 cup |
This slow cooker smothered chicken recipe is great for busy nights. It’s tender chicken with creamy gravy. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a tasty meal.
Best Side Dishes for Smothered Chicken
Looking for the perfect sides for smothered chicken? There are many tasty options to choose from. You can pick from classic southern dishes or fresh, vibrant sides. These will make your meal even more enjoyable.
Sautéed green beans are a favorite. They’re crisp and mild, which contrasts well with the savory chicken. For a filling choice, try steamed jasmine rice. It soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Roasted sweet potatoes add a sweet touch and lots of nutrients. If you love pasta, a Greek pasta salad is a great choice. It brings a nice contrast in texture and taste.
Classic picks like mashed potatoes with herbs and garlic bread are always a hit. They soak up the gravy and complement the chicken. For extra fun, try cornbread or buttermilk biscuits to enjoy the sauce.
With so many tasty options, you’re sure to find the perfect sides for your smothered chicken. They’ll make your meal even better.
“The secret to a great smothered chicken dish lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures in the accompanying side dishes.”
Recommended Side Dishes for Smothered Chicken:
- Sautéed green beans
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Greek pasta salad
- Mashed potatoes with herbs
- Garlic bread
- Cornbread
- Buttermilk biscuits
Remember, the key is to choose sides that soak up the gravy. They should also add variety in texture and flavor to your meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious smothered chicken leftovers. Store the chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to the gravy to prevent it from becoming too thick and dry.
For best results, reheat the smothered chicken gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating, as this can lead to the chicken drying out and the gravy becoming tough or rubbery. The goal is to warm the dish through without compromising the succulent texture and flavor.
Proper Storage Methods
- Store leftover smothered chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze the chicken and gravy for longer-term storage, up to 4 months.
- Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
Reheating Without Drying
- On the stovetop, place the chicken and gravy in a saucepan over medium heat and reheat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.
- In the microwave, heat the chicken and gravy in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each session, until warmed through.
- Add a splash of chicken broth to the gravy to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can ensure your leftover smothered chicken retains its signature moist, flavorful qualities. This makes it the perfect comfort food any time.
“The key to reheating smothered chicken is to do it gently, adding a bit of liquid to the gravy to keep it from drying out.”
Conclusion
Smothered chicken is a favorite comfort food, loved for its tender chicken and rich gravy. It’s a key part of Southern cuisine. You can try classic, creamy mushroom, or slow-cooker recipes for a tasty meal.
Creating delicious smothered chicken is easy with the right techniques and ingredients. It’s all about searing the chicken and getting the gravy just right. These steps make your meal unforgettable. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or steamed greens for a full meal.
When trying smothered chicken recipes, don’t be afraid to add your own twist. Use different seasonings and spices to make it your own. This comfort food chicken is versatile, so you can make it your favorite southern chicken dish.
FAQ
What is smothered chicken?
Smothered chicken is a Southern comfort food. It’s juicy chicken smothered in a rich, savory gravy. It’s great with mashed potatoes or rice.
Where does smothered chicken originate from?
It comes from Southern cuisine, especially soul food. The dish cooks chicken in a flavorful gravy until it’s tender.
What are the key ingredients in smothered chicken?
Key ingredients are bone-in chicken thighs, onions, garlic, flour, and chicken stock. You also need salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
How do you make the perfect gravy for smothered chicken?
To make perfect gravy, whisk flour into the fat from cooking the chicken and onions. Then, add chicken stock slowly while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps. Simmer until it coats the back of a spoon.
What’s the difference between the classic Southern smothered chicken recipe and the creamy mushroom version?
The classic recipe uses bone-in chicken thighs. The creamy mushroom version uses chicken breasts. It adds mushrooms to the gravy for extra flavor and texture.
What are some good side dishes to serve with smothered chicken?
Good sides include mashed potatoes, rice, buttermilk biscuits, green beans, collard greens, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
How long does leftover smothered chicken last, and how do you reheat it properly?
Leftover smothered chicken lasts up to 3 days in the fridge. To reheat, add chicken broth to the gravy to keep it from thickening too much. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring often.
