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Delicious Southern Smothered Chicken Recipe

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4.1 from 60 reviews

Delicious Southern Smothered Chicken is a comforting dish featuring tender marinated chicken seared to a golden brown and simmered in a rich, creamy onion and garlic gravy. This classic Southern recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients and results in a flavorful, hearty meal perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

  • 3-4 lbs. organic chicken, skin removed (Drumsticks and thigh pieces recommended)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsps Lawry’s seasoning salt, divided
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Sauce

  • 1/4 cup organic all-purpose flour
  • 4 Tbsps unsalted butter
  • 2 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 2 cups organic chicken stock or bone broth
  • 1 cup organic heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cleaned and rinsed chicken with 1 tsp Lawry’s seasoning salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly until chicken pieces are fully coated. Transfer the coated chicken to a sealed ziplock bag and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight. When ready to cook, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
  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 and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful brown sear. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add the chopped onions and sauté until caramelized and deeply golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring well to dissolve it completely.
  4. Simmer the Gravy: Gradually pour in the chicken stock or bone broth, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer gently until smooth and thickened. Add the fresh thyme sprigs and the remaining 1 tsp of Lawry’s seasoning salt, stirring to combine.
  5. Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet, stirring them into the sauce to coat completely. Continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the gravy deepens in color and thickens. If the sauce is too thin, add 1-2 tablespoons of flour mixed with water to thicken as needed.
  6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the smothered chicken hot alongside your favorite sides such as basmati rice, brown rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
  7. Enjoy: Relish this rich, comforting Southern classic with family and friends. Bon Appétit!

Notes

  • For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
  • Let the chicken come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even searing.
  • Use fresh thyme for a fragrant herby taste; dried thyme may alter the flavor profile.
  • If the gravy is not thick enough, gradually add a slurry of flour and water to adjust consistency.
  • Remove thyme sprigs before serving if preferred.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/delicious-southern-smothered-chicken-recipe/