Savory Southern Smothered Chicken Recipe
This savory Southern dish features tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich and creamy gravy, perfect for serving over rice or mashed potatoes. It's a comforting meal that brings warmth and flavor to the table.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste fresh parsley finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the spice blend on each chicken thigh.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and brown the other side for 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, then add heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and oregano. Simmer until thickened.
- Return chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Lower heat, cover, and cook for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the lid, taste the gravy, and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve over rice or mashed potatoes, allowing the gravy to soak in.
Notes
Serve with rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.