Southern Comfort Food (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 3-4 lbs organic chicken, skin removed (drumsticks and thigh pieces).
02 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.
03 - 2 teaspoons Lawry's seasoning salt, divided.
04 - 1 teaspoon black pepper.
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
06 - 1/4 cup organic all-purpose flour.
07 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter.
08 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil.
09 - 4 garlic cloves, minced.
10 - 1 onion, chopped.
11 - 2 fresh thyme sprigs.
12 - 2 cups organic chicken stock or bone broth.
13 - 1 cup organic heavy cream.

Instructions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine cleaned chicken with 1 teaspoon Lawry's seasoning salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix to coat, place in a sealed ziplock bag, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight. Let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
02 - Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, melt butter, add chopped onions, and sauté until golden and caramelized (8-10 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute.
04 - Stir in the flour until combined with onions and garlic. Pour in chicken stock or broth, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens (2-3 minutes).
05 - Reduce heat to low, add heavy cream, thyme sprigs, and the remaining 1 teaspoon Lawry's seasoning salt. Let simmer until smooth and thickened.
06 - Return seared chicken to the skillet, coat with sauce, and simmer for another 10-15 minutes until cooked through and the gravy reaches a rich, thick consistency. If needed, add a flour-water mixture for extra thickening.
07 - Remove from heat and serve with your favorite side, such as basmati rice, mashed potatoes, or veggies.

Notes:

01 - This Southern Smothered Chicken is a rich, comforting dish with tender chicken pieces coated in a creamy, savory sauce.
02 - Ideal for a family dinner, it pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of steamed vegetables.
03 - Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor, making this dish even more satisfying.