Smothered Chicken Recipe

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This detailed recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone tender chicken thighs in a creamy, flavorful gravy. Perfect for family gatherings, Sunday dinners, or any time you crave Southern comfort food.

Ingredients

Chicken:

  • 6–8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on preferred for flavor, but boneless works too).

Gravy Base:

  • 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken herb soup (use regular cream of chicken if preferred).
  • 1 cup chicken broth (adjust based on desired thickness).
  • 1 large bell pepper (any color or a mix), thinly sliced.
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced.

Seasonings:

  • 1 tsp poultry seasoning
  • 1 tsp seasoning salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Adobo seasoning
  • 1 tsp Complete seasoning (green top)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Accent seasoning (optional but enhances flavor).
  • 1 tsp Creole seasoning (for a mild kick).
  • Extra of the above seasonings for the gravy mixture.

Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for searing).
  • Optional: garlic (2 cloves, minced) or garlic powder for added flavor.
  • Optional: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken:

  1. Lightly coat the chicken thighs in a thin layer of oil to help the seasonings stick.
  2. Generously season the chicken with the listed seasonings, adjusting amounts to your taste.
  3. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10–15 minutes. If you have time, marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour in the fridge for deeper flavor.

2️⃣ Sear the Chicken:

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 3–5 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp.
  3. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 3–5 minutes.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

3️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables:

  1. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onions.
  2. Cook over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
    • If adding garlic, stir it in during the last 1 minute of cooking to prevent burning.

4️⃣ Prepare the Gravy:

  1. Add the 2 cans of cream of chicken soup to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir well to combine.
  2. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, a little at a time, until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
  3. Season the gravy with a light sprinkle of poultry seasoning, paprika, Adobo, and Creole seasoning. Taste and adjust as needed.

5️⃣ Bake the Chicken:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange the seared chicken thighs in a large baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
  3. Pour the gravy and vegetable mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  5. Bake covered for 1 hour to allow the chicken to become tender and the flavors to meld.
  6. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20–30 minutes to thicken the gravy and slightly crisp the chicken.

6️⃣ Serve:

  • Once baked, stir the gravy gently to loosen it up.
  • Serve hot over your favorite starch:
    • Rice: Fluffy white rice or seasoned yellow rice.
    • Mashed Potatoes: Buttery mashed potatoes are a classic pairing.
    • Egg Noodles: For a comforting twist.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Crispier Skin: If you prefer super crispy chicken skin, remove the chicken after baking, broil on high for 2–3 minutes, then return to the gravy.
  2. Thicker Gravy: Use less chicken broth, or simmer the gravy on the stovetop for 5–10 minutes before pouring over the chicken.
  3. Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms or celery for more texture and flavor in the gravy.
  4. Lighter Option: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
  5. Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~400
  • Protein: ~28g
  • Carbs: ~10g
  • Fat: ~28g

This smothered chicken recipe delivers all the comforting flavors of a Southern classic with minimal effort. Perfect for a cozy family meal or special occasion!

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