This comforting Southern classic delivers tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a rich onion gravy. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, it pairs beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes. Here’s how to bring this timeless dish to life:
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken: Cut into pieces (bone-in, skin-on)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil 🫒
- 1 large onion: Thinly sliced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper: Optional for a spicy kick
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: For thickening
- Fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Brown the Chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Place the chicken pieces skin-side down in the hot skillet. Brown each side for 4–5 minutes, working in batches if necessary. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Cook the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions to the remaining oil and drippings. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and caramelized (8–10 minutes).
4. Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook the raw flour. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the gravy thickens slightly.
5. Smother the Chicken:
Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the onion gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 35–45 minutes. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked.
6. Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot. Pair with fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or classic Southern sides like collard greens or cornbread.
Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor: Deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar before adding the chicken broth.
- To lighten the dish: Use skinless chicken thighs or breasts, though you may sacrifice some richness.
- Make it ahead: The flavors deepen as the dish rests, making it ideal for reheating the next day.
This smothered chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household—comfort food at its finest!