BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe with VIDEO

This BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe with VIDEO is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to any table. With tender chicken thighs soaked in a rich, creamy gravy, this dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. The blend of spices and flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth chicken: The chicken thighs become incredibly tender, making each bite delightful.
• Rich, creamy gravy: A flavorful gravy that elevates the dish and can be served over rice or mashed potatoes.
• Easy to make: Simple steps ensure that even novice cooks can whip up this dish without hassle.
• Versatile meal option: Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
• Crowd-pleaser: This recipe is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your smothered chicken journey, having the right tools can make a significant difference in your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well, ensuring even cooking of the chicken and perfect browning.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients easily and keeping your workspace organized.
• Measuring cups: Help achieve precise measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

To create this delicious smothered chicken and gravy, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 8 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup of flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

For the Gravy

• 1/4 cup oil for frying chicken
• 1 medium onion, minced
• 5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 Tbs butter (salted)
• 2 Tbs seasoned flour (from the initial flour measurement)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 chicken bouillon cube
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tsp dried basil

How to Make BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe with VIDEO

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, season the flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and mix well. Coat each chicken thigh in the seasoned flour.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet, add minced onions and garlic. Sauté until translucent. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in 2 tablespoons of seasoned flour from earlier to create a roux.

Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients

Gradually whisk in chicken broth while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add heavy cream and dissolve the bouillon cube into the mixture. Stir until thickened.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Gravy

Return browned chicken thighs back to the skillet. Sprinkle red pepper flakes and dried basil over everything. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes until cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm over rice or mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal. Don’t forget to leave a star rating and comment to let us know how you liked this recipe!

How to Serve BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe with VIDEO

Serving the BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy is all about pairing it with the right accompaniments. This dish is rich and hearty, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Classic Comfort

• Over Rice: Serve the chicken and gravy over a bed of fluffy white rice for a classic comfort meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes absorb the gravy beautifully, creating a flavorful combination.

Fresh Additions

• Steamed Vegetables: Brighten your plate with a side of steamed broccoli or carrots for added nutrition.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad can balance the richness of the dish while adding a refreshing crunch.

Hearty Choices

• Cornbread: Pair your smothered chicken with warm cornbread for a Southern twist.
• Biscuits: Flaky biscuits are perfect for soaking up extra gravy, making every bite delightful.

How to Perfect BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe with VIDEO

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Keep these in mind as you prepare your smothered chicken.

• bold seasoning: Make sure to season your flour mix well; it enhances the flavor of the chicken significantly.
• bold browning technique: Brown the chicken thighs properly for that golden color. This adds depth to the overall flavor.
• bold simmering time: Allow enough time for simmering after adding broth; this helps meld all flavors together.
• bold cream addition: Stir in the heavy cream at the end to keep it rich without curdling during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe with VIDEO

Complement your BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy with these delicious side dishes. Each option pairs well with the rich flavors of this comforting meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread adds an aromatic touch while allowing you to savor every bit of gravy.
2. Green Beans Almondine: A classic dish that brings both texture and taste, sautéed green beans topped with almonds fit well on any plate.
3. Quinoa Salad: A healthy quinoa salad mixed with fresh veggies provides a nutritious contrast to the savory chicken.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet roasted sweet potatoes balance out the savory elements of the dish beautifully.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, perfectly complementing the creamy gravy.
6. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers another comforting side that pairs wonderfully with smothered chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe with VIDEO to perfection.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly before cooking can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and spices.
• Not browning the chicken: Failing to brown the chicken can result in a less flavorful dish. Make sure to sear the chicken until golden brown before moving on to make the gravy.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold broth or cream can cool down your dish and affect texture. Always warm your liquids slightly before incorporating them into the gravy.
• Ignoring the thickness of gravy: If the gravy is too thin, it won’t cling to the chicken. Use enough flour and allow it to cook long enough to achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
• Rushing the cooking process: Cooking on high heat can lead to uneven cooking. Slow and steady wins, so maintain a medium heat for even cooking.
• Neglecting to taste: Skipping this step could lead you to miss out on adjusting flavors. Always taste your gravy before serving to ensure it’s just right.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool down before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe with VIDEO

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate portions for easy reheating later.

Reheating BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe with VIDEO

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil; heat for about 25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1–2 minutes, stirring in between until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe with VIDEO.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

To thicken your gravy, you can add more flour or a slurry made from cornstarch mixed with water. Simmer until thickened.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work well; however, adjust cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in options.

What should I serve with BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe with VIDEO?

Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that complements the rich flavors of the dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything except for adding cream ahead of time. Just add cream when you’re ready to serve for best results.

Final Thoughts

This BEST Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe with VIDEO offers warmth and comfort that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding different herbs or spices based on your preferences. Try it out today!