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Smothered Chicken


  • Author: Martha
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 bone-in chicken thighs (or 2 large chicken breasts, halved)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Green onions, sliced

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder on both sides.
  2. Sear: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Make the Gravy

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add sliced onions and cook until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
  2. Create the Roux: Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  3. Add Liquids: Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Let the mixture simmer until it thickens, about 5 minutes.

Combine and Cook

  1. Nestle the Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the gravy.
  2. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Serve

  1. Plate and Garnish: Serve the chicken hot, smothered in gravy. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
  • Prep Time: 15 min.
  • Cook Time: 45 min.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 servings
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g