Southern Smothered Chicken
A soul-warming dish that features tender chicken enveloped in a rich, savory gravy, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs About 1 1/2 lb in total
- 3 pieces bone-in chicken drumsticks About 1 1/4 lb in total
Seasoned Flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour For coating the chicken
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika To add a smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances the savoriness
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Adds a sweet, aromatic profile
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper For a subtle kick
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt To elevate flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper For a touch of spice
Cooking Elements
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil For browning the chicken
- 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced Adds sweetness to the gravy
- 3 cloves garlic, minced To boost aroma
Gravy Base
- 2 tablespoons reserved seasoned flour Used for thickening the gravy
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth Base for the sauce
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme Adds herby brightness
- 1 piece bay leaf Adds complexity to the flavor
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onion or parsley For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and dredge them in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess.
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the chicken on both sides, approximately 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken and set aside, then pour out excess oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the skillet.
- Add sliced onions to the skillet and sauté until soft and golden, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in the reserved seasoned flour, stirring for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet.
- Return chicken to the skillet, add thyme and bay leaf, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes.
- Discard bay leaf and thyme sprigs, taste the gravy, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onion or parsley.
Notes
To achieve an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes after simmering. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or hot sauce for a refreshing contrast. For a creamy variation, stir in a splash of heavy cream toward the end of cooking.