Spicy Southern Chicken & Gravy
Today, I am excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes: Spicy Southern Chicken & Gravy. The perfect combination of flavors that reminds me of home and the comfort of a warm kitchen. This dish has been a staple in my family for generations, and I am thrilled to pass it down to you.
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients we will need:
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup whole milk
Growing up, my grandma would always make this dish on Sundays. The smell of the chicken frying in the pan would fill the house, and we couldn’t wait to sit down at the table. The crispy exterior of the chicken paired with the creamy gravy was a match made in heaven.
One tip I learned from my mom is to season the flour generously. This will ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. Don’t be shy with the spices; that’s where the magic happens. And if you like it extra spicy, feel free to add more cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
As the cooler months approach, I find myself making this dish more often. There is something about the warmth and heartiness of the chicken and gravy that brings me comfort on a chilly evening. I love serving it with mashed potatoes or creamy grits for the ultimate soul-soothing meal.
Cooking Process:
1. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge the chicken thighs in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to coat them evenly.
3. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Pour off any excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
5. Sprinkle a little bit of the seasoned flour mixture into the skillet to create a roux. Cook for a few minutes until it turns a light golden brown.
6. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
This Spicy Southern Chicken & Gravy recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition. I hope you enjoy creating this dish as much as I do and that it brings you the same warmth and joy it has brought to my family for years. Happy cooking!
