The Ultimate Guide to Smothered Chicken and Gravy with Mashed Potatoes
Smothered chicken and gravy are the epitome of comfort food, blending rich flavors and creamy textures into a satisfying meal. This classic Southern dish is a favorite for many due to its simplicity and deliciousness. When made right, the chicken is tender and juicy, enveloped in a savory gravy that pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this comforting dish, offer tips for perfecting the recipe, and suggest ideal side dishes. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will help you make a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
What is Smothered Chicken and Gravy?
Smothered chicken and gravy is a beloved Southern dish where chicken pieces are first browned and then cooked in rich, savory gravy. The term “smothered” refers to the process of cooking the chicken in a generous amount of gravy, which infuses the meat with flavor and keeps it moist. The gravy is typically made from the chicken drippings, combined with chicken broth, flour, and butter to create a thick, flavorful sauce. The dish is often served over a bed of mashed potatoes, which soak up the delicious gravy and complement the tender chicken. Smothered chicken and gravy is a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners and special occasions. Its appeal lies in the combination of tender, juicy chicken and creamy, flavorful gravy, making it a classic choice for those seeking hearty and satisfying comfort food.
How to Make Smothered Chicken and Gravy?
Making smothered chicken and gravy involves several steps to ensure the chicken is flavorful and the gravy is rich and thick. Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and sear them until they are golden brown on both sides. This step is crucial as it creates a flavorful crust and locks in the juices. After searing, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add more butter and flour to make a roux. Cook the roux until it’s golden brown, then gradually whisk in chicken broth. Stir constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth gravy. Once the gravy has thickened, return the chicken to the skillet, cover it with the gravy, and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. This method results in a dish where the chicken absorbs the savory flavors of the gravy, creating a comforting and delicious meal.
Choosing the Right Chicken: Breast vs. Thighs
When it comes to making smothered chicken and gravy, choosing the right cut of chicken can significantly impact the dish’s flavor and texture. Chicken breasts are a popular choice due to their lean meat and relatively quick cooking time. However, they can dry out if overcooked, so it’s essential to monitor them closely. On the other hand, chicken thighs are known for their rich flavor and juiciness. They remain tender even with longer cooking times, making them an excellent choice for this dish. Thighs also have a slightly higher fat content, which adds extra flavor to the gravy. If you prefer, you can use a combination of both chicken breasts and thighs to balance lean and juicy cuts. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure all pieces are cooked through. Overall, using chicken thighs can enhance the dish’s richness, while breasts offer a leaner alternative.
Why Use Chicken Broth for Gravy?
Chicken broth is a key ingredient in making a flavorful gravy for smothered chicken. It adds depth and richness to the sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Using chicken broth instead of water ensures that the gravy is packed with savory flavors. If possible, opt for homemade chicken broth as it has a more robust taste compared to store-bought varieties. However, high-quality store-bought chicken broth can also yield excellent results. If you’re using low-sodium broth, be mindful of the seasoning, as you might need to add a bit more salt and pepper to taste. Chicken broth helps to deglaze the skillet, lifting the browned bits from the bottom and incorporating them into the gravy. This process not only enriches the flavor but also ensures that the gravy is smooth and well-seasoned. For a richer gravy, you can use a combination of chicken broth and cream or milk.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Mashed Potatoes
Homemade mashed potatoes are a perfect side dish for smothered chicken and gravy. To make them, start by peeling and chopping potatoes into even pieces. This ensures they cook uniformly. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot, cover them with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bringing the water to a boil and cooking the potatoes until they are tender about 15-20 minutes, is essential for achieving a smooth consistency. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Add butter, warm milk, and salt and pepper to taste. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, being careful not to over-mash, which can lead to a gluey texture. For extra creaminess, consider adding roasted garlic, cream cheese, or shredded cheese. The result should be fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes that complement the rich gravy and tender chicken beautifully.
The Importance of a Good Skillet
A good skillet is essential when making smothered chicken and gravy. A heavy-bottomed skillet, such as a cast iron or stainless steel pan, is ideal as it retains heat well and distributes it evenly. This ensures that the chicken browns properly and that the gravy cooks at a consistent temperature. When searing the chicken, make sure the skillet is hot enough to create a golden-brown crust, which adds flavor and texture to the dish. Additionally, using a well-seasoned skillet helps prevent sticking and ensures that the gravy comes out smoothly. When making the gravy, the skillet should be large enough to accommodate both the chicken and the sauce without overcrowding. A good-quality skillet not only enhances the cooking process but also contributes to the final taste and presentation of the dish.
How to Thicken Your Gravy to Perfection
Thickening gravy is a crucial step in making smothered chicken and gravy. The most common method is to use a roux, which is a mixture of flour and butter. To make the roux, melt butter in the skillet and add flour, cooking it until it reaches a golden color. This mixture will help thicken the gravy as it simmers. Gradually whisk in chicken broth to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture. Another method is to use a cornstarch slurry, made by mixing cornstarch with cold water and adding it to the hot gravy. Stir constantly to prevent clumping. The key to achieving the perfect consistency is to add the thickener gradually and keep stirring until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. If the gravy becomes too thick, you can thin it with additional chicken broth.
Tips for Searing Chicken for Maximum Flavor
Searing the chicken is a critical step in making smothered chicken and gravy, as it adds flavor and creates a beautiful crust. To achieve the best sear, start with a hot skillet and a small amount of oil or butter. Season the chicken well with salt and pepper before adding it to the skillet. Place the chicken pieces in the pan without overcrowding, and let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side. This allows the chicken to develop a golden-brown crust, which enhances the flavor. Avoid moving the chicken around too much, as this can prevent proper browning. Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the skillet and proceed with making the gravy. The browned bits left in the skillet add depth to the gravy, making the dish even more flavorful.
Can You Use Instant Potatoes with This Recipe?
While homemade mashed potatoes are preferred, instant potatoes can be a convenient alternative when time is short. Instant potatoes are quick and easy to prepare, making them a suitable option for busy weeknights. To make instant potatoes, follow the instructions on the package, but consider adding extra butter and milk to enhance their flavor and creaminess. While they might not have the same depth of flavor as homemade mashed potatoes, instant potatoes still provide a good base for the gravy. They can be a practical choice for those who need a fast side dish to complement their smothered chicken. If using instant potatoes, make sure to prepare them according to the package directions and season them well to match the richness of the gravy.
Serving Suggestions: Best Side Dishes for Smothered Chicken and Gravy
Smothered chicken and gravy is a versatile dish that pairs well with various side dishes. While mashed potatoes are a classic choice, you can also serve the chicken and gravy over rice, biscuits, or even pasta. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy and flavorful element to the meal. Macaroni and cheese is another comforting side that complements the creamy gravy and tender chicken. The key is to choose sides that will soak up the delicious gravy and provide a contrast to the richness of the smothered chicken.
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chicken and gravy recipe smother
Description
Indulge in this chicken and gravy recipe featuring pan-seared chicken smothered in rich gravy. Perfect comfort food served over mashed potatoes for a quick meal!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 packets of chicken gravy mix
- 1 1/4 cups condensed chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, mix water, chicken gravy mix, condensed chicken soup, garlic powder, kosher salt, and paprika.
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are well-coated with the gravy mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve the chicken with the gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Protein: 25 g