If you’re craving classic Southern comfort food, this smothered chicken recipe is the answer. Juicy, seasoned chicken breasts are pan-fried to perfection and then simmered in a rich, creamy onion gravy. This dish combines homestyle flavor with simple ingredients, making it a weeknight favorite that tastes like Sunday dinner. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty smothered chicken recipe:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. - Sear the Chicken:
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside. - Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add sliced onions. Cook for 5–7 minutes until they’re soft and caramelized. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. - Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the leftover seasoned flour into the pan and whisk for 1 minute. Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Add heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until the gravy thickens. - Smother the Chicken:
Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon gravy over the top, reduce heat to low, and cover. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. - Serve and Garnish:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Tips & Variations
- Use thighs: Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for juicier results.
- Add mushrooms: Stir in sliced mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
- Make it spicy: Increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the gravy.
- Lighter option: Replace heavy cream with evaporated milk or low-fat milk.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour for dredging and thickening.
Serving Suggestions
This smothered chicken recipe pairs beautifully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or buttered rice to soak up the gravy.
- Steamed green beans, collard greens, or roasted carrots.
- Fluffy Southern-style biscuits for a complete comfort meal.
- A side salad for a lighter balance.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this smothered chicken recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dish up to a day in advance and reheat gently on the stove. The flavors deepen overnight.
Q2: Can I use bone-in chicken?
Absolutely. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q3: How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
Whisk in a slurry of 1 teaspoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water, then simmer until the desired thickness is achieved.
Q4: What’s the best pan to use?
A cast-iron skillet works perfectly for achieving that golden sear and even heat distribution.
Conclusion
This smothered chicken recipe delivers everything you love about Southern comfort food — creamy gravy, tender chicken, and deep, satisfying flavor. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a must-try dish for any home cook. Serve it with your favorite sides for a hearty, comforting meal that’s guaranteed to please.
