Southern Smothered Chicken – Indulge in the soul-soothing flavors of our Southern Smothered Chicken recipe. This beloved dish is a true testament to the heartwarming goodness of Southern cuisine. Picture succulent chicken, enveloped in a creamy, seasoned gravy, and served alongside fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. With its tantalizing aroma and rich flavors, this recipe is sure to transport you to the cozy comfort of a Southern kitchen. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience this classic dish that has become a staple in countless households across the country.
In our little family, Southern Smothered Chicken holds a special place. It all started when my husband took his first bite of this dish at a family gathering. His eyes lit up with delight, and he couldn’t stop raving about the incredible flavors that danced on his palate. From that moment on, it became our go-to recipe for family dinners and special occasions. We’ve shared countless memorable meals gathered around the table, savoring each tender bite of the chicken smothered in the velvety gravy. It’s a dish that has brought us closer together and created lasting memories. Now, I’m thrilled to share this cherished recipe with you, so you too can create unforgettable moments with your loved ones.
Why This Southern Smothered Chicken Recipe Will Win Your Heart?
- Irresistible Seasonings: The chicken is coated in a medley of aromatic spices, including garlic powder, onion powder, celery seed, and more, infusing each bite with layers of robust flavor.
- Creamy Gravy Delight: The star of this dish is the creamy gravy, made with a combination of seasoned flour, chicken broth, and milk. It’s velvety, luscious, and perfect for smothering the chicken in a blanket of savory goodness.
- Tender and Juicy Chicken: With its golden brown, crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat, this smothered chicken recipe guarantees a succulent and satisfying dining experience.
- Versatile Accompaniments: Serve this delectable chicken alongside fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete Southern feast. The dish pairs perfectly with your favorite comfort food sides.
- Family Favorite: Tested and adored by our own little family, this recipe has become a cherished tradition. It’s a tried-and-true crowd-pleaser that will win over the hearts of everyone at your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. chicken (legs and thighs recommended) (454 g)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (180 g)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp celery seed
- 1 tbsp. onion powder
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1 tbsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
Directions:
Begin by ensuring that the chicken is thoroughly cleaned.
In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of flour with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, celery seed, poultry seasoning, and smoked paprika. Mix well to incorporate the seasonings.
Coat the chicken pieces with the seasoned flour, ensuring that every surface is coated evenly. Set aside the remaining seasoned flour.
In a large pan, heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the chicken to the pan, taking care not to overcrowd it. Cook until the chicken is golden brown (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage).
Once the chicken is nicely browned, remove it from the pan, leaving the oil behind.
Toss in the chopped onions and cook for approximately 2 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute. Remove the onions and garlic from the pan.
Add 3 tablespoons of the reserved seasoned flour to the pan, stirring it into the oil.
Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Let the gravy cook for about 2 minutes over medium heat, then pour in 1 cup of whole milk, stirring well.
Allow the creamy gravy to cook for approximately 3 minutes, then return the chicken, onions, and garlic to the pan. Ensure that all the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated with the creamy gravy.
Cover the pan with a lid and let the chicken cook for 30-35 minutes, turning the pieces occasionally.
Once done, serve the Southern Smothered Chicken with your choice of rice or mashed potatoes.
Notes:
- For a healthier alternative, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of legs and thighs.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning quantities according to your taste preferences.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoned flour.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated the next day for a delicious meal.
- This recipe is perfect for gatherings or potluck dinners, as it can easily be doubled or tripled to serve larger crowds.
Indulging in the comforting flavors of Southern Smothered Chicken is like taking a culinary journey to the heart of the South. With its tender and juicy chicken, smothered in a creamy, seasoned gravy, this recipe is a celebration of soulful cooking. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with loved ones, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the table and create lasting memories.
As you savor each bite of succulent chicken, coated in a medley of aromatic spices, and smothered in the velvety gravy, you’ll experience the warmth and love that goes into every Southern kitchen. The versatility of this recipe allows you to pair it with your favorite sides, whether it’s fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or traditional Southern fare.
So go ahead, gather your loved ones, and embark on a culinary adventure with this Southern Smothered Chicken recipe. Let the enticing aromas and rich flavors fill your home, creating an atmosphere of comfort and togetherness. It’s a recipe that has stood the test of time, passed down from generation to generation, and now it’s your turn to embrace this Southern classic.
Try this cherished dish, and with each tender bite, you’ll understand why Southern Smothered Chicken holds a special place in our hearts and why it has become a beloved favorite in households across the country. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a taste of Southern hospitality and a reminder of the joy that comes from gathering around the table with the ones we love.
So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and prepare to create a culinary masterpiece that will transport you to the heart and soul of the South. Enjoy the irresistible flavors, the cherished traditions, and the love that this Southern Smothered Chicken recipe brings to your home. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
While this recipe is specifically designed for chicken, you can experiment with other proteins such as pork or turkey. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make the gravy thicker?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add a slurry made of equal parts cornstarch and cold water. Mix it in gradually while the gravy is simmering until the desired thickness is achieved.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I use skim milk instead of whole milk?
Whole milk provides a richer and creamier flavor, but you can substitute it with skim milk if desired. Keep in mind that the overall richness of the dish may be slightly affected.
What side dishes go well with Southern Smothered Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables, cornbread, or collard greens for a complete Southern-style feast.
Southern Smothered Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb. chicken legs and thighs recommended (454 g)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 180 g
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp celery seed
- 1 tbsp. onion powder
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1 tbsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 medium-sized onion chopped
Instructions
- Begin by ensuring that the chicken is thoroughly cleaned.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of flour with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, celery seed, poultry seasoning, and smoked paprika. Mix well to incorporate the seasonings.
- Coat the chicken pieces with the seasoned flour, ensuring that every surface is coated evenly. Set aside the remaining seasoned flour.
- In a large pan, heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken to the pan, taking care not to overcrowd it. Cook until the chicken is golden brown (it doesn't need to be fully cooked at this stage).
- Once the chicken is nicely browned, remove it from the pan, leaving the oil behind.
- Toss in the chopped onions and cook for approximately 2 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute. Remove the onions and garlic from the pan.
- Add 3 tablespoons of the reserved seasoned flour to the pan, stirring it into the oil.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Let the gravy cook for about 2 minutes over medium heat, then pour in 1 cup of whole milk, stirring well.
- Allow the creamy gravy to cook for approximately 3 minutes, then return the chicken, onions, and garlic to the pan. Ensure that all the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated with the creamy gravy.
- Cover the pan with a lid and let the chicken cook for 30-35 minutes, turning the pieces occasionally.
- Once done, serve the Southern Smothered Chicken with your choice of rice or mashed potatoes.
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