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Southern Smothered Chicken

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Southern Smothered Chicken is a comforting, soul food classic featuring golden-seared chicken simmered in a rich, creamy onion gravy. Tender, flavorful, and hearty, it’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (plus 2 tablespoons for gravy)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  2. Dredge chicken pieces lightly in flour, shaking off excess.
  3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add sliced onions and cook until softened and caramelized, about 5–6 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute more.
  5. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour into the pan and stir to form a roux. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
  6. Stir in cream or milk and bring to a gentle simmer until the gravy thickens.
  7. Return chicken to the pan, coating it with gravy. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 25–30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
  8. Adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with parsley and serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or cornbread.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken for the best flavor and tenderness.
  • Whisk the gravy constantly to avoid lumps.
  • For a lighter dish, substitute milk for cream.
  • Pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or buttery rice.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/southern-smothered-chicken/