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The Ultimate Guide to Authentic Southern Smothered Chicken


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  • Author: sofia
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings

Description

Delicious Southern Smothered Chicken is a rich comfort dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken simmered in a creamy, flavorful onion gravy.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 34 lbs chicken (drumsticks & thighs, skin removed)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp seasoning salt (divided)
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Sauce

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 thyme sprigs
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 1 cup heavy cream


Instructions

  1. Season chicken with paprika, 1 tsp seasoning salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Marinate for at least 3 hours (overnight best).
  2. Heat olive oil and sear chicken on both sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onions until caramelized (8–10 minutes). Add garlic and cook briefly.
  4. Stir in flour and cook until combined.
  5. Add chicken stock and stir until thickened (2–3 minutes).
  6. Pour in heavy cream, add thyme and remaining seasoning salt, and simmer.
  7. Return chicken to the pan, coat in sauce, and simmer 10–15 minutes until fully cooked and gravy thickens.

Notes

  • Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
  • Add flour slurry if gravy needs extra thickening.
  • Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or biscuits.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ marinating)
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern American