Southern Smothered Chicken is a comforting, rich dish featuring tender chicken coated in a savory, creamy gravy. This Southern classic is perfect for family dinners, offering delicious flavors with minimal prep. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal. Marinate the chicken overnight to enhance the flavors and enjoy a meal that’s perfect for any cozy evening!
This Southern Smothered Chicken is a comforting classic, featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, creamy gravy. With deep, savory flavors and simple ingredients, it’s an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner.
INGREDIENTS
- Organic Chicken (3-4 lbs, drumsticks and thighs): Using bone-in pieces adds depth to the flavor, while marinating brings out the best in each bite.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky taste that complements the creamy gravy perfectly.
- Lawry’s Seasoning Salt (divided): A blend of spices that enhances the savory flavors of the chicken and gravy.
- Black Pepper: Provides a mild kick and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a layer of savory depth that works well with the fresh garlic in the sauce.
Sauce Ingredients
- Organic All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the gravy, giving it a smooth, creamy texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to the sauce, helping to caramelize the onions and create a flavorful base.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Used for browning the chicken, adding a touch of flavor while preventing sticking.
- Garlic Cloves (minced): Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor of the gravy.
- Onion (chopped): Caramelized onions bring a sweet, savory balance to the creamy sauce.
- Fresh Thyme Sprigs: Infuses the gravy with a subtle herbal note that complements the other flavors.
- Chicken Stock or Bone Broth: Adds richness to the sauce, making it savory and comforting.
- Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess to the gravy, creating a rich, smooth finish that’s perfect for smothering the chicken.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Place cleaned and rinsed chicken pieces in a large bowl. Season with 1 teaspoon of Lawry’s seasoning salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until each piece is fully coated. Transfer the chicken to a ziplock bag, seal, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or, ideally, overnight. When ready to cook, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
- Step 2: Brown/Sear the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in an even layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt. Add chopped onions and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
- Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of flour, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in 2 cups of chicken stock or bone broth, stirring frequently until the mixture begins to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 5: Add Cream and Simmer
- Reduce the heat to low, add 1 cup of heavy cream, and 2 sprigs of fresh thyme. Season with the remaining 1 teaspoon of Lawry’s seasoning salt. Stir well, allowing the sauce to simmer until smooth and thickened.
- Step 6: Add the Chicken and Finish Cooking
- Return the browned chicken to the skillet, coating each piece in the sauce. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the gravy is rich and flavorful. If needed, add a flour-water mixture to thicken further.
- Step 7: Serve
- Remove from heat and serve the smothered chicken with your favorite side dish, such as basmati rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve Southern Smothered Chicken hot over a bed of jasmine or basmati rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Helpful Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight deepens the flavor and makes each bite more savory and tender.
- For a thicker sauce, add an extra tablespoon of flour mixed with a little water and stir well while simmering.
- If you prefer a less creamy gravy, reduce the amount of heavy cream by half.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Carla Hall suggests using bone-in chicken for the best flavor and tenderness in Southern dishes like this.
- Chef Edna Lewis recommends caramelizing the onions well to bring out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall depth of the dish.
- Chef Marcus Samuelsson adds that fresh thyme is an excellent herb to incorporate for a subtle earthy flavor in creamy dishes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Southern Smothered Chicken is a true comfort food, combining creamy, savory flavors in a satisfying meal.
- It’s an easy recipe that yields rich flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- The recipe is versatile, pairing well with various side dishes like rice, mashed potatoes, or even roasted vegetables.
Variations
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce.
- Use fresh rosemary instead of thyme for a different herbaceous flavor profile.