Savory Smothered Chicken Thighs with Gravy

Looking to bring a touch of old-school charm and heartwarming flavors to your dinner table? Look no further than this soul-soothing recipe for Smothered Chicken Thighs Gravy. Picture this: succulent chicken thighs seasoned to perfection, boasting a crispy golden skin, all lovingly smothered in a rich and creamy gravy that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

The magic of this dish lies in the humble yet transformative process of turning basic ingredients like flour, chicken stock, and cream into a silky, luxurious gravy that hugs each tender chicken thigh with every bite. As the aromas of seasoned chicken and savory gravy fill your kitchen, you’ll find yourself transported to a place of comfort and celebration, much like the Sunday dinners of yesteryears.

Whether you choose to serve this delectable dish over fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or buttery noodles, one thing is certain – Smothered Chicken Thighs Gravy is sure to become a cherished favorite in your household. So, gather your loved ones around the table, savor the flavors of tradition, and create new memories with each indulgent spoonful of this Southern-inspired culinary masterpiece.

Quick Benefits

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs provide superior flavor and stay juicy during cooking while crisping nicely.
• Adding heavy cream after simmering the broth creates a rich, velvety gravy with perfect texture.
• You can substitute with a blend of cumin, coriander, garlic powder, and paprika to match the flavor profile.
• Spoon the chicken and gravy generously over fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Smothered Chicken Thighs with Gravy Recipe

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs provide superior flavor and stay juicy during cooking while crisping nicely.
• Adding heavy cream after simmering the broth creates a rich, velvety gravy with the perfect texture.
• You can substitute with a blend of cumin, coriander, garlic powder, and paprika to match the flavor profile.
• Spoon the chicken and gravy generously over fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
• Use bone-in thighs and finish cooking covered in the oven to maintain moisture and tenderness.

Ingredients for Savory Smothered Chicken Thighs with Gravy

Chicken

• 4 to 5 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Seasonings

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder, divided
• 2 teaspoons Lawry’s seasoning salt, plus 1 tablespoon divided
• 2 teaspoons cracked black pepper
• 2 tablespoons paprika, divided
• 1 Sazon seasoning packet
• Dried parsley, for garnish

Flour Mixture and Pan Components

• Approximately 240 grams (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 28 grams (2 tablespoons) unsalted butter
• 30 milliliters (2 tablespoons) avocado oil or vegetable oil

Aromatics and Liquids

• 1/2 large white onion, sliced
• 600 milliliters (2 1/2 cups) chicken stock
• 7 to 8 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 120 milliliters (1/2 cup) heavy cream

Pro Tips for Savory Smothered Chicken Thighs with Gravy

For the best results with this Smothered Chicken Thighs with Gravy recipe, opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as they offer the most flavor and remain juicy while getting crispy. To achieve a luscious gravy, remember to add heavy cream after simmering the broth for a velvety texture. If you’re missing Sazon seasoning, create a similar flavor profile by using a blend of cumin, coriander, garlic powder, and paprika.

When serving this dish, be sure to generously ladle the chicken and gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a classic touch. To maintain the tenderness and moisture of the chicken thighs, consider finishing the cooking process covered in the oven. This comforting recipe is sure to impress and become a household favorite that brings a sense of celebration to the table.

How to Make Savory Smothered Chicken Thighs with Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat dry chicken thighs and season with 2 teaspoons Lawry’s seasoning salt, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon paprika, and 1 Sazon packet. Rub seasoning mixture onto both sides of the chicken.

Step 2: Season the Flour

Combine all-purpose flour with Lawry’s seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and cracked black pepper in a bowl. Whisk well to mix the seasonings evenly.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Dredge seasoned chicken thighs in seasoned flour, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess flour and set aside the remaining seasoned flour for later.

Step 4: Brown the Chicken

In a large oven-safe pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook chicken thighs skin side down for 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Aromatics

If necessary, drain excess oil from the pan, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Add butter, sliced onion, chopped garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, cracked black pepper, and 4 tablespoons of reserved seasoned flour. Whisk and cook for 3 to 5 minutes to create a light roux.

Step 6: Build the Gravy

Slowly whisk in chicken stock and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Then add heavy cream and continue whisking.

Step 7: Return Chicken to Pan

Return the seared chicken thighs along with their juices to the pan, placing them in the gravy.

Step 8: Bake to Finish

Bring the mixture to a boil on the stovetop, cover with a lid, and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 45 minutes.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

Take the chicken out of the oven, uncover it, and generously spoon gravy over the top. Sprinkle with dried parsley and serve with mashed potatoes.

Storage Tips

To store the finished smothered chicken dish, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. The cooked chicken and gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to freeze the dish, keep the chicken and gravy together in a sealed container. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to maintain the texture of the dish. Cream-based sauces like this gravy can thicken when refrigerated, so consider adding a splash of chicken broth when reheating to adjust the consistency.

When making variations of this recipe, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are recommended for their superior flavor and ability to stay juicy while crisping nicely. To create a rich and velvety gravy, add heavy cream after simmering the broth. If you don’t have Sazon seasoning, you can substitute with a blend of cumin, coriander, garlic powder, and paprika to match the flavors of the dish. Serve the smothered chicken and gravy generously over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a classic touch and a delightful meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have chicken thighs, bone-in drumsticks can be a good alternative for this recipe as they will also provide juiciness and flavor. When using a gluten-free flour for dredging, ensure it has a similar texture to all-purpose flour to achieve the desired crispy coating. If Sazon seasoning is not available, a mix of ground coriander and cumin can be used to add depth and flavor to the dish.

For a lighter gravy, you can replace the heavy cream with half and half, though the final result may be slightly less creamy. To maintain the tenderness of the chicken, ensure you use bone-in pieces and consider finishing the cooking covered in the oven. Serve this comforting dish over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a classic and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try pairing the smothered chicken thighs and gravy with a side of buttery cheddar biscuits. The flaky, savory biscuits complement the creamy gravy perfectly and add a delicious twist to the classic dish. The combination of the tender chicken, rich gravy, and cheesy biscuits will make for a comforting and indulgent meal that will impress your family and guests.

Another fun way to serve the smothered chicken thighs and gravy is by turning them into a hearty sandwich. Toast some brioche buns, pile on the chicken and gravy, and top with crispy lettuce and pickles for a delicious sandwich experience. The creamy gravy will soak into the buns, creating a messy but oh-so-satisfying meal that is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.

FAQs for Savory Smothered Chicken Thighs with Gravy

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?

For the best flavor and juiciness, it is recommended to use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. However, if you prefer boneless, skinless thighs, you can still use them but adjust the cooking time to prevent them from drying out.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the gravy?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half and half. This substitution will result in a slightly lighter gravy, but it will still be rich and flavorful.

How should I store leftovers of the smothered chicken thighs?

Leftovers should be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They usually stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. If you plan to freeze the leftovers, keep the chicken and gravy together in a sealed container and reheat gently on the stove to maintain the texture.

What sides can I serve with the smothered chicken thighs and gravy?

For a classic touch, serve the smothered chicken thighs and gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes. Other great side options include roasted garlic broccoli, sautéed green beans, steamed white rice, or buttery egg noodles. The creamy gravy pairs well with any starch.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Smothered Chicken Thighs Gravy brings as much joy and comfort to your table as it does to mine. The rich flavors, crispy skin, and velvety gravy are sure to make it a family favorite for years to come. Remember, the key to success lies in the simple pleasures of good food and shared meals.

Whether you’re looking to impress your loved ones or simply craving a hearty, homestyle dish, Smothered Chicken Thighs Gravy is the perfect answer. Embrace the magic of transforming basic ingredients into something truly special, and let the aroma of this dish fill your home with warmth and happiness. So go ahead, gather around the table, and savor every delicious bite of this soul-satisfying meal.