Southern Smothered Chicken with Creamy Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic
Tender chicken thighs simmered in a creamy onionand garlic gravy, seasoned to perfection. This Southern-style dish is rich,flavorful, and perfect for comforting meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 35 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine South American-Inspired
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal
- 4 bone-in skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil vegetable or olive oil
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups chicken broth low sodium recommended
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce optional, for extra flavor
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Prepare the Chicken : Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Dredge the chicken lightly in flour, shaking off excess.
Sear the Chicken : Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics : In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Make the Gravy : Sprinkle a tablespoon of the dredging flour into the skillet and stir. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to medium-low, then add the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using). Simmer until the gravy thickens slightly.
Smother the Chicken : Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the gravy. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Garnish and Serve : Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits to soak up the creamy gravy.
Keyword Southern chicken recipe