If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that will satisfy all the family and friends, look no further than this smothered chicken recipe. In fact, this dish features tender chicken pieces bathed in a rich, savory gravy that’s perfect over rice or mashed potatoes. Moreover, With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up this soul food classic any dinner in the week.
Why You’ll Love Smothered Chicken recipe
- Comfort Food: There’s something incredibly satisfying about a plate of smothered chicken. The combination of juicy chicken and creamy gravy is pure comfort.
- Versatile: This recipe can be served with various sides, from fluffy rice to buttery biscuits, making it adaptable to any occasion.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, even novice cooks can master this dish.
Simple Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the best smothered chicken recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 pieces of chicken (thighs or breasts)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge them in flour until well-coated, shaking off any excess.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on both sides (about 5 minutes per side). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet, add butter and sliced onions. Cook until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
Sprinkle the remaining flour over the onions and stir for about a minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Gravy
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until fully cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your smothered chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Additionally, for added flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Furthermore, pair with sides like steamed vegetables or cornbread for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Smothered Chicken Recipe
- Brine Your Chicken: For extra moisture, consider brining your chicken beforehand.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices can elevate the flavor of your gravy significantly.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce before serving.
Nutrition Facts for Smothered Chicken Recipe
To begin with, here’s a detailed nutrition facts sheet for a typical serving of smothered chicken based on various sources like Eat This Much and To Simply Inspire. Additionally, note that values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value | % Daily Value (DV) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 376 – 891 | – |
| Total Fat | 21g – 34g | 27% – 44% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g – 12g | 45% |
| Trans Fat | 0.2g | – |
| Cholesterol | 105mg – 125mg | 42% |
| Sodium | 421mg – 2199mg | 18% – 96% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 7g – 90g | 2% – 33% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g – 2g | 4% – 6% |
| Sugars | 1g – N/A | – |
| Protein | 26g – 56g | 52% |
| Calcium | 33mg – N/A | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg – N/A | 6% |
| Potassium | 531mg – N/A | – |
| Vitamin A | 900 IU | 18% |
| Vitamin C | 2mg | 2% |
Key Nutritional Highlights:
- Calories: The calorie content can vary significantly depending on the recipe, with some versions containing up to 891 calories per serving.
- Protein: Smothered chicken is a great source of protein, providing between 26g to 56g, which contributes to muscle repair and overall health.
- Sodium: Be mindful of sodium levels, as some recipes can be quite high, reaching up to 2199mg, which is nearly the daily limit for many adults.
- Fats: The fat content also varies, with some recipes containing higher amounts due to the use of cream or butter.
Conclusion
This smothered chicken recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any dining table. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this comforting meal will surely impress everyone.For more delicious recipes, check out our Southern Comfort Food collection or explore our Chicken Recipes for more ideas!
1. What is smothered chicken?
Smothered chicken is a classic Southern dish that features chicken pieces cooked in a rich, flavorful gravy. The chicken is typically seasoned, seared, and then simmered in the gravy, resulting in tender meat and a delicious sauce that pairs well with rice or mashed potatoes.
2. Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes! While the recipe commonly uses thighs or breasts, you can also use drumsticks or wings. Just ensure that the cooking time is adjusted accordingly to ensure all pieces are fully cooked.
3. How can I make the gravy thicker?
To thicken the gravy, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the gravy during the last few minutes of cooking until it reaches your desired thickness. Alternatively, you can let it simmer uncovered for a longer time to reduce and thicken naturally.
4. What sides pair well with smothered chicken?
Smothered chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides, including fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, cornbread, collard greens, or steamed vegetables. You can choose sides based on your preference or what you have on hand.
5. Can I make smothered chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare smothered chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat before serving. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.