This Easy Smothered Chicken and Gravy is all about comfort! Juicy chicken is cooked until golden and topped with a rich, creamy gravy that makes every bite amazing.
Honestly, I can’t resist slopping that gravy all over my mashed potatoes! It’s a cozy dish that warms the soul. Plus, it’s super simple to prepare—just cook, simmer, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs give great flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, skinless chicken breasts can work too, but they might dry out quicker if overcooked.
Onions: Sweet onions are wonderful for this dish, but yellow or red onions will also do well. If you’re in a pinch, shallots can be substituted for a milder taste.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is always best, but store-bought works perfectly. If you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead for a different twist.
Whole Milk or Heavy Cream: Whole milk keeps it creamy, but you can use half-and-half or even unsweetened almond milk for a lighter option. Just keep in mind it won’t be as rich.
Thyme: Dried thyme is convenient, but fresh thyme adds a lovely brightness. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or Italian seasoning can be good substitutes.
How Do I Make A Rich Gravy?
The gravy is key to this dish, and it’s made simple through a roux. Here’s how to get it just right:
- After you remove the chicken, add onions to the skillet. Sauté them until they’re soft and golden, allowing their flavors to meld.
- Add garlic and stir briefly before adding flour. You want to cook the flour for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw taste.
- Next, slowly mix in chicken broth and milk. Whisk while you pour to avoid lumps. This helps make a smooth, rich gravy.
- Once it simmers, you’ll see it thicken up. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to capture every bit of flavor.
By following these steps, you’ll create perfectly delicious gravy that coats the chicken wonderfully!
Easy Smothered Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
For the Gravy:
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Smothered Chicken and Gravy takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 40 minutes from start to finish to have this comforting meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika if you’d like that extra flavor kick.
2. Searing the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear them until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. After that, flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion. Cook over medium heat until the onions are softened and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 more minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Making the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook this for 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, scraping the bottom of the skillet to get all those flavorful brown bits. Bring it to a simmer and allow the gravy to thicken, which should take around 3-5 minutes.
5. Final Touches:
Next, stir in the thyme and taste for seasoning. Adjust with more salt and pepper as needed. Then, return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning some gravy over them. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Serving:
Once ready, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a truly comforting meal!
FAQ for Easy Smothered Chicken and Gravy
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs. Just remember that they may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked and tender. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Recipe With Skinless Chicken?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken, but keep in mind that the dish may be less rich. Skin-on chicken adds flavor and moisture, so you might want to reduce cooking time to avoid drying out the meat.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to the gravy if it has thickened too much.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes! You can freeze the smothered chicken and gravy for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
