Description
Crispy chicken thighs simmered in a rich, savory onion gravy — a comforting Southern-style dish that turns any meal into a cozy family favorite or a satisfying Sunday dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 to 5 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons Lawry’s seasoning salt, plus 1 tablespoon, divided
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder, divided
- 2 tablespoons paprika, divided
- 1 Sazon seasoning packet
- 2 teaspoons cracked black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Dried parsley for garnish
Flour Mixture & Pan:
- Approximately 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Aromatics & Liquids:
- 1/2 large white onion, sliced
- 7 to 8 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 1/2 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Preparation
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides evenly with 2 tsp Lawry’s seasoning salt, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp paprika, and 1 Sazon packet. Massage the seasoning into the skin and meat until fully coated.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour with 1 tbsp Lawry’s, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp paprika, and 2 tsp cracked black pepper. Stir until the mixture is thoroughly blended.
Step 3: Dredge and Sear
Dip the seasoned chicken thighs into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Reserve 4 tbsp of the seasoned flour for later use in the gravy. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken skin-side down and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until crisp and golden. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Build the Gravy Base
Pour off most of the oil, leaving about 2 tbsp in the skillet. Add butter, onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, and the 4 tbsp of reserved flour. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring often and scraping up the browned bits from the pan to form a roux.
Step 5: Simmer the Gravy
Gradually whisk in the chicken stock. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until the gravy starts to thicken slightly. Add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Return the seared chicken thighs and any juices to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Bring the sauce to a light boil over medium heat, then cover the skillet. Transfer to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 45 minutes until tender and fully cooked.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the hot, creamy gravy over the chicken and sprinkle with dried parsley. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or warm biscuits for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers ultimate comfort food in every bite. The combination of crispy, seasoned chicken thighs with a rich, creamy onion gravy is irresistible. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave a taste of Southern-style cooking. The ease of preparation combined with the incredible flavor makes it a surefire winner.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over mashed potatoes for a classic, comforting meal.
- Pair with rice to soak up the flavorful gravy.
- Serve alongside warm, fluffy biscuits for a traditional Southern touch.
- Add a side of green beans or collard greens for a complete and balanced meal.
Tips
- Ensure chicken thighs are patted completely dry before seasoning and searing to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken to ensure even browning. Work in batches if necessary.
- Scrape up the browned bits from the pan when making the roux; this adds depth of flavor to the gravy.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- For an even richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.
Preparation Time:
- 20 minutes
Cook Time:
- 1 hour
Total Time:
- 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
Smothered Chicken Thighs with Gravy is a hearty and flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its crispy chicken and creamy onion gravy, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a special Sunday supper, this recipe is a delicious choice that delivers every time.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?
A: While boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used, the bone-in, skin-on thighs are recommended for the best flavor and texture. The skin crisps up beautifully, and the bone adds richness to the gravy. If using boneless, skinless thighs, reduce the baking time slightly to prevent them from drying out.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. The flavors actually meld together even more when refrigerated overnight. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop before serving. Add a splash of chicken broth if the gravy becomes too thick during reheating.
Q3: What can I substitute for heavy cream in the gravy?
A: If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, you can substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for the heavy cream. However, the gravy will be slightly less rich and creamy. You can also use a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a vegan version.
Q4: Can I add vegetables to the gravy?
A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, diced carrots, or celery to the gravy can enhance the flavor and add nutritional value. Sauté the vegetables with the onions and garlic before adding the flour and chicken stock.
Q5: What is Sazon seasoning, and can I substitute it?
A: Sazon seasoning is a popular Latin American seasoning blend that adds a unique savory flavor to dishes. If you can’t find it, you can substitute it with a mixture of cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garlic powder. Adjust the quantities to match your taste preferences.
