Creamy Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Tender, juicy chicken covered in a delicious creamy gravy. If you need a delicious chicken recipe with a southern flare, this is just what you are looking for.

📝 Ingredients

• 6 to 8 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in chicken thighs)
• 1/2 cup oil (for frying)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2-1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk (or half and half)
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons seasoned flour

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Combine the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Take three tablespoons from the flour mixture and set aside.
2. 2Wash the chicken and pat dry, then dredge in the flour-spice mixture. Shake off excess flour and set it aside.
3. 3Heat the oil in a large pan over medium to high heat. Add the chicken and sear until brown—about 4 minutes on each side. Remove to a plate. Remove excess oil from the pan and leave about 3 tablespoons.
4. 4Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown—about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, bay leaf, thyme, and butter. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. 5Add the reserved three tablespoons of seasoned flour into the onion and stir on medium heat until all the onions are covered with the flour. Cook for about 3 minutes.
6. 6Add the chicken stock and continue to stir and cook for about 30 seconds. Make sure not to overcook to maintain the golden brown color.
7. 7Pour the stock slowly while whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in the milk and season with salt and pepper. Continue to cook on medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil.
8. 8Add the fried chicken to the gravy. Be sure the gravy covers the chicken. Cover it up and bake at 425°F preheated oven undisturbed for one hour. Or cook on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, for 25 to 30 minutes or until the chicken is completely done, and the gravy is thickened.
9. 9Adjust the seasoning if necessary, remove from heat, discard the bay leaf and serve over white rice or mashed potatoes.