Name: Smothered Chicken: Amazing 15-Min Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts; 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp Seasoned Salt; 1 tsp Black Pepper; 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil; 4 tbsp Butter; 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour; 2 cups Chicken Broth; 1 cup Half and Half; 1 Beef Bouillon Cube; 1 tsp Low Sodium Soy Sauce; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Dried Thyme; 1 tsp Dried Rosemary; 1 tsp Ground Sage; Optional: Kitchen Bouquet for color; Fresh Parsley for garnish

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Smothered chicken has a way of bringing people together, a true taste of Southern comfort that always feels like a warm hug. I still remember my grandma making this dish on lazy Sunday afternoons; the kitchen would fill with the most incredible aroma of savory chicken and creamy gravy, making my mouth water before it was even ready. This homemade smothered chicken is so rich and satisfying, perfect for any weeknight dinner or a special family meal. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Smothered Chicken

The flavor is incredibly rich and comforting, a true taste of home.
It’s surprisingly quick to prepare, making it an easy smothered chicken option for busy weeknights.
Using chicken breasts makes it a leaner choice compared to some traditional recipes.
It’s a budget-friendly meal that uses common pantry staples.
This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for picky eaters and family dinners.
It’s a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with many sides.
You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to achieve such amazing flavor.
This easy smothered chicken recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying comfort food.

Ingredients for Smothered Chicken

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to making my favorite smothered chicken gravy. You’ll need:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – I like to slice these in half horizontally to make thinner cutlets, which cook more evenly.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour – this is for dredging the chicken to get that perfect golden crust.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs – I use plain breadcrumbs, but panko works too for extra crunch.
1 tbsp seasoned salt – this adds a great base flavor to the chicken coating.
1 tsp black pepper – for a little kick.
1/4 cup vegetable oil – for pan-frying the chicken.
4 tbsp butter – the foundation for our creamy gravy.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour – this is key for thickening the gravy.
2 cups chicken broth – low-sodium is best so you can control the saltiness.
1 cup half and half – this makes the gravy wonderfully rich and creamy.
1 beef bouillon cube – adds a deep savory flavor to the sauce.
1 tsp low sodium soy sauce – for umami and color.
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 tsp ground sage – these herbs give the gravy its classic, comforting aroma.
Optional: Kitchen Bouquet for color – if you want that deep, restaurant-style brown color.
Fresh parsley for garnish – a little fresh green makes it look beautiful.

How to Make Smothered Chicken

Making this classic dish is easier than you think! Follow these steps for a truly satisfying meal.

Step 1: Get your oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and gather your ingredients. This dish comes together fairly quickly, but a hot oven ensures everything is ready at the right time.
Step 2: On a shallow plate, mix the 1/2 cup all-purpose flour with the 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp seasoned salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. This seasoned coating is what gives the chicken its lovely golden crust when fried.
Step 3: Take your 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. You can also gently pound them with a meat mallet to an even 3/4-inch thickness. This helps them cook evenly and tenderly.
Step 4: Pat the chicken pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels. Then, dredge each piece generously in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess.
Step 5: Heat the 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (your smothered chicken skillet!) over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be shimmering but not smoking.
Step 6: Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 7: Carefully drain most of the oil from the skillet, leaving behind the flavorful brown bits. You can wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel if there’s excessive residue.
Step 8: Reduce the heat to medium and melt the 4 tbsp butter in the same smothered chicken skillet.
Step 9: Gradually whisk in the 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, stirring constantly to create a smooth paste, also known as a roux. Cook this for about 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden and smells nutty.
Step 10: Slowly whisk in the 2 cups chicken broth, followed by the 1 cup half and half, ensuring there are no lumps.
Step 11: Stir in the 1 beef bouillon cube, 1 tsp low sodium soy sauce, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, and 1 tsp ground sage. If you like a deeper, richer color, add a splash of Kitchen Bouquet now.
Step 12: Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it bubble softly for a few minutes until it begins to thicken.
Step 13: Return the golden-brown chicken pieces, along with any juices that collected on the plate, back into the skillet with the luscious gravy.
Step 14: Reduce the heat to low, partially cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the gravy for 10-15 minutes. This allows the chicken to finish cooking and become incredibly tender, soaking up all that amazing flavor. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for the chicken.
Step 15: Garnish generously with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving this delicious smothered chicken recipe.

Smothered Chicken: Amazing 15-Min Gravy Recipe - Smothered Chicken - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken

I’ve learned a few things over the years that really elevate this dish. Follow these tips for the most delicious result!

Don’t skip pounding the chicken; it ensures even cooking and tender bites.
Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken for a perfect golden crust.
Whisk the flour and butter for the gravy until it’s lightly browned to develop a deeper, nuttier flavor.
Low and slow is the way to go when simmering the chicken in the gravy; patience yields tenderness.

What’s the secret to perfect smothered chicken gravy?

The key to a truly amazing, creamy smothered chicken gravy is creating a proper roux by cooking the flour and butter together until lightly golden. This builds a rich flavor base before adding the liquids. For more on creating a good roux, check out this guide to sauces.

Can I make smothered chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and the gravy separately up to a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the gravy gently, then add the chicken to warm through.

How do I avoid common mistakes with smothered chicken?

Avoid overcooking the chicken, which can make it tough. Also, don’t rush the gravy; whisking out lumps and simmering until thickened is essential for that luscious texture. Learning about proper cooking techniques can help avoid these issues.

Best Ways to Serve Smothered Chicken

This incredible dish is so versatile and makes for a fantastic main course. My favorite way to enjoy this smothered chicken recipe is over a bed of fluffy white rice, which perfectly soaks up all that delicious, savory gravy. It’s a classic pairing for a reason! Another wonderful option is to serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a side of buttery biscuits, both of which are excellent for catching every last drop of that rich sauce. For a more complete meal, a fresh green salad or some steamed green beans adds a lovely contrast to the richness of the smothered chicken. Consider pairing it with a simple Caprese salad for a fresh element.

Nutrition Facts for Smothered Chicken

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving of this delicious smothered chicken recipe. It’s a hearty dish that provides a good balance of macronutrients.

Calories: 450 kcal
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 700 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Smothered Chicken: Amazing 15-Min Gravy Recipe - Smothered Chicken - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Smothered Chicken

Properly storing and reheating your delicious smothered chicken ensures it stays just as tasty as when you first made it. Once the chicken has cooled slightly, transfer it to an airtight container. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you won’t get to it within that timeframe, freezing is a great option! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. These smothered chicken cooking tips help preserve its texture and flavor. For more on food preservation, you might find information on sustainable practices helpful.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop. Place the chicken and gravy in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, using short bursts and stirring halfway. Just be sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smothered Chicken

What is smothered chicken?

What is smothered chicken? It’s a classic comfort food dish where tender pieces of chicken, often pan-fried to a golden brown, are simmered in a rich, savory gravy until incredibly tender. This dish is the epitome of soulful Southern cooking, offering a deeply satisfying and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. For a similar comforting pasta dish, try pappardelle with beef ragu.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! A smothered chicken thigh recipe is just as delicious, if not more so, because thighs are naturally more forgiving and stay moist. You can use about 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. The cooking time might be slightly longer to ensure they are cooked through.

What are the best sides for smothered chicken?

When serving this amazing dish, think about what absorbs that delicious gravy best! A classic pairing is fluffy white rice, making it a perfect smothered chicken and rice meal. Creamy mashed potatoes are another fantastic choice, as is cornbread or fluffy biscuits. For a lighter option, steamed green beans or a simple side salad offer a nice contrast. You might also enjoy roasted carrot soup as a starter.

How do I make the gravy thicker if it’s too thin?

If your gravy isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can easily fix it! Make a slurry by whisking together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the simmering gravy and cook for another minute or two until it thickens to your desired consistency. This is a great tip for achieving that perfect creamy smothered chicken texture.

Variations of Smothered Chicken You Can Try

While this classic smothered chicken recipe is fantastic, there are so many ways to switch it up! For a richer, more forgiving dish, try a smothered chicken thigh recipe using boneless, skinless thighs. They stay incredibly moist and tender even if cooked a little longer. If you prefer a lighter option, you can adapt this for smothered chicken breast by ensuring you don’t overcook them, perhaps by pounding them thinner. For a dairy-free version, simply swap the half-and-half for full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream. You could also add sautéed mushrooms and onions to the gravy for an extra layer of flavor, making it a delicious smothered chicken with mushrooms and onions. Consider trying homemade tomato sauce as another versatile base for different dishes.