Southern Smothered Chicken with Gravy is a classic comfort food that features tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy. This dish combines the savory taste of Cajun seasoning with the creaminess of a homemade gravy, making it a perfect choice for a hearty family meal. Let’s dive into this traditional Southern recipe and learn how to make Southern Smothered Chicken with Gravy step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons McCormick’s Cajun Seasoning
- 4 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons parsley, roughly chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season Flour:
- In a large bowl or shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Mix well.
- Coat Chicken:
- Dredge the chicken thighs in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Reserve the remaining flour mixture for the gravy.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
- Heat Oil:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Brown Chicken:
- Add the floured chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer the browned chicken to a plate and set aside. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- Cook Onions:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onions. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic:
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
- Add Reserved Flour:
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the reserved seasoned flour into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Chicken Broth:
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until the gravy thickens.
- Add Milk and Bay Leaves:
- Stir in the whole milk and add the bay leaves. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, for another 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Smother the Chicken
- Return Chicken:
- Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Spoon some of the gravy over the top of the chicken.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the gravy is thickened.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Add Parsley:
- Stir in the chopped parsley and remove the bay leaves.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Southern Smothered Chicken with Gravy hot, with the rich gravy spooned over the top. Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Chicken: Bone-in chicken thighs provide the best flavor and tenderness. You can also use boneless thighs, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Gravy: For a thicker gravy, cook it a bit longer to reduce it further. If it becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Seasoning: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your taste for a milder or spicier flavor.
Variations
Spicy Smothered Chicken
- Add Heat:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the gravy for extra spice.
Mushroom Smothered Chicken
- Add Mushrooms:
- Stir in 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions for added flavor and texture.
Herb Smothered Chicken
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme to the gravy for a fragrant twist.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- With Mashed Potatoes:
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy.
- With Rice:
- Pair with steamed white rice or a flavorful rice pilaf.
Vegetables
- With Green Beans:
- Serve with sautéed green beans or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- With Collard Greens:
- Pair with Southern-style collard greens for a classic comfort food combination.
Beverages
- With Sweet Tea:
- Enjoy with a glass of iced sweet tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink.
- With Red Wine:
- Serve with a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Zinfandel, for a perfect pairing.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, Southern Smothered Chicken with Gravy can be made ahead of time and reheated gently in the skillet or oven before serving. The flavors often improve after sitting for a day.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover smothered chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I use boneless chicken? A: Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts, but the cooking time will be shorter. Check for doneness after about 20 minutes of simmering.
Q: Can I freeze the Smothered Chicken? A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I add other vegetables? A: Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the gravy for added flavor and nutrition.
Southern Smothered Chicken with Gravy is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, rich gravy, and savory flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this meal is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Southern Smothered Chicken with Gravy with your family and friends!
