What makes Country-Style Smothered Chicken & Gravy a unique Southern dish?

This dish is a Southern comfort food classic. It features tender chicken smothered in creamy gravy. The chicken is slow-cooked until tender, then covered in homemade gravy. This dish is deeply rooted in Southern cooking traditions.

Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs, breasts, or a whole chicken. Chicken thighs are best for their flavor and tenderness. Cooking times may vary with different cuts.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to dredge the chicken and thicken the gravy. Make sure all ingredients are gluten-free for dietary restrictions.

What are the best side dishes to serve with Smothered Chicken & Gravy?

Try buttermilk biscuits, mashed potatoes, white rice, collard greens, or green beans. These sides soak up the gravy and complement the chicken's flavors.

How long can I store leftover Smothered Chicken & Gravy?

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat with chicken broth to keep the gravy creamy and the chicken moist.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, it tastes better the next day. Prepare it ahead and reheat gently. It's great for meal prep or entertaining.

What's the secret to making the perfect creamy gravy?

Build flavor layers slowly. Start with a roux, use warm stock, and whisk continuously. Season with herbs and black pepper for a rich flavor.

Country-Style Smothered Chicken & Gravy: 5 Perfect Southern Secrets

Name: Country-Style Smothered Chicken & Gravy: Ultimate Southern Comfort Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (divided); 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1 large onion, diced; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Description

Authentic Southern Country-Style Smothered Chicken & Gravy features tender chicken thighs slow-cooked in rich, creamy brown gravy. This traditional comfort food recipe transforms simple ingredients into a soul-warming family dinner that captures the essence of Southern hospitality.

Ingredients

Scale

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1/2 cup all-purpose flour (divided)

2 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup whole milk

1 large onion, diced

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp black pepper

1 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

2 tbsp vegetable oil

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Instructions

1. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika, then coat in 1/4 cup seasoned flour

2. Heat oil in cast-iron skillet and brown chicken pieces until golden on all sides, then remove

3. In same skillet, caramelize diced onions until deep golden brown

4. Sprinkle remaining flour over onions to create roux, stirring constantly for 2 minutes

5. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, then add milk, whisking until smooth

6. Return chicken to skillet, nestling in gravy

7. Cover and simmer 20-25 minutes until chicken is tender and gravy thickens

8. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste

Notes

For best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness

Cast-iron skillet provides superior heat retention and adds authentic Southern flavor

Gravy will continue to thicken as it cools – add more broth if needed when reheating

Dish tastes even better the next day as flavors develop

Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 4 days

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with gravy
Calories: 485
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 145mg