Easy Stovetop Smothered Chicken

This Easy Stovetop Smothered Chicken recipe is a comforting, home-cooked meal that comes together in one pan. Featuring juicy, seasoned chicken smothered in a rich and flavorful gravy, this dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or biscuits for a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal – Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Comfort food classic – Rich, creamy, and packed with homestyle goodness.
• Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples for an easy, fuss-free recipe.
• Versatile – Pair with various sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or veggies.
• Perfect for meal prep – Reheats well for leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken thighs or breasts
• All-purpose flour
• Onion, sliced
• Garlic, minced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream or milk
• Butter
• Vegetable oil
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Dried thyme
• Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Season the chicken – Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Dredge and brown – Lightly coat the chicken in flour and brown it in a skillet with oil over medium heat. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté onions and garlic – In the same pan, melt butter and cook onions until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Make the gravy – Stir in the remaining flour, then slowly whisk in chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme.
5. Simmer – Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Finish with cream – Stir in heavy cream or milk, let it thicken for a few minutes, then garnish with parsley.
7. Serve – Enjoy over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick – Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Mushroom gravy – Sauté mushrooms with the onions.
• Herbaceous twist – Use rosemary or sage for a deeper flavor.
• Dairy-free – Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk.
• Gluten-free – Use cornstarch instead of flour for the gravy.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?

Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for extra moisture and flavor.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but be careful not to overcook them as they tend to dry out faster.

What can I serve with smothered chicken?

Mashed potatoes, rice, cornbread, or steamed vegetables are excellent sides.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the chicken first, then cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How can I make the gravy thicker?

Add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water) and simmer until thickened.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and heavy cream instead of milk for a keto version.

What’s the best pan to use?

A heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron works best for even cooking.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers work well in this dish.

How do I store extra gravy?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for later use.

Conclusion

Easy Stovetop Smothered Chicken is a classic comfort food recipe that’s rich, flavorful, and simple to make. With its creamy, savory gravy and tender chicken, it’s a perfect dish for any night of the week. Try it with your favorite sides and enjoy a homemade meal that feels like a hug on a plate!

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