Description
This Smothered Chicken and Gravy recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs simmered in a rich, savory gravy made from simple, affordable ingredients. Easy to prepare and deeply comforting, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. The classic southern-inspired dish is customizable and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Gravy Base
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for GF option)
- 2 cups chicken broth
Seasonings and Herbs
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This step helps lock in moisture and builds a flavorful crust during cooking.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Browning enhances flavor and texture. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. This infuses the gravy base with rich aroma.
- Make the Gravy: Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly golden. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, adding gradually while stirring to avoid lumps, creating a smooth and thickened sauce.
- Simmer the Chicken: Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through, allowing flavors to meld.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh herbs, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and serve the Smothered Chicken and Gravy piping hot for the best experience.
Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the juiciest and most flavorful results.
- Do not skip browning the chicken to develop a deep, rich flavor in the gravy.
- Whisk broth gradually into the roux to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth gravy.
- Simmer gently on low heat to keep the chicken tender and allow flavors to blend.
- Let the chicken rest off heat for a few minutes before serving to absorb the sauce fully.
- For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the gravy.
- Add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans to boost texture and nutrition.
- For a dairy-free or gluten-free option, substitute butter with olive oil and use gluten-free flour.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with gravy
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg