Smothered Chicken with Homemade Gravy is a comforting and delicious dish that brings warmth to any meal.
The combination of tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a rich, flavorful gravy is a classic favorite.
This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering, offering a taste of home-cooked goodness that everyone will love.
In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to create this delightful dish.
We’ll cover everything from preparing the chicken to making the perfect gravy.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this guide will help you create a meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredient List
To make Smothered Chicken with Homemade Gravy, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Seasonings for chicken (as per your preference)
- Olive oil
- Yellow onion
- Chicken broth
- Chicken drumsticks or chicken thighs
- All-purpose flour
- Unsalted butter
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First, clean your chicken thoroughly.
Pat the chicken dry to ensure a good sear.
Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and season it with your chosen seasonings.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Take the chicken out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking.
This helps it cook more evenly.
Heat a pan with a light coat of oil until it’s hot.
Add your chicken to the hot pan and sear on all sides for about 3-5 minutes each.
After searing, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
This step helps to lock in the juices and create a nice crust on the outside.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
In the same pan, add unsalted butter and yellow onion.
Sauté the onions until they are translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
Add flour to the pan and cook it down until smooth.
This creates a roux, which is the base for your gravy.
Slowly add chicken broth to the pan, mixing well to avoid lumps.
Simmer the mixture until it thickens to your desired consistency.
If the gravy is too thick, add more water or broth.
If it’s too loose, add a little more flour.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Gravy
Add your seared chicken back to the pan.
Coat the chicken in the rich, flavorful gravy.
Ensure that each piece is well-covered to absorb the delicious sauce.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Place the pan in the oven.
Make sure you’re using an oven-safe pan.
Bake at 350°F for about 50 minutes.
This ensures the chicken is cooked all the way through and tender.
Final Touches
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven.
Plate it with your choice of sides.
I recommend pairing it with steamed broccoli and serving the chicken over white rice.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinating the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate not only enhances the flavor but also helps in tenderizing the meat. If you have more time, marinate the chicken overnight for even better results.
- Searing the Chicken: Ensure the pan is hot enough before adding the chicken. This step is crucial for achieving a golden-brown crust, which adds texture and flavor to the dish.
- Making the Gravy: Stir continuously while adding the flour and broth to avoid lumps. A smooth gravy is key to the success of this dish.
- Adjusting Gravy Consistency: Gravy can be tricky. If it’s too thick, add a little more broth or water gradually. If it’s too thin, cook it a bit longer, or add a small amount of flour mixed with cold water to thicken it up.
- Using an Oven-Safe Pan: If you don’t have an oven-safe pan, you can transfer the chicken and gravy to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Smothered Chicken with Homemade Gravy pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots add a healthy and colorful touch to the meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with gravy and provide a comforting base for the chicken.
- Rice: White rice, brown rice, or even wild rice can be used to soak up the delicious gravy.
- Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for sopping up any extra gravy and add a Southern twist to the dish.
Conclusion
Smothered Chicken with Homemade Gravy is a delightful dish that combines the simplicity of home cooking with rich, comforting flavors.
By following these steps, you can create a meal that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a surefire way to bring smiles to the table.
Enjoy the process of cooking, and most importantly, enjoy the delicious results. Happy cooking! 😘