Description
Smothered Chicken is a beloved dish in the heart of Southern cuisine, bringing together tender, juicy chicken and a rich, velvety gravy that simply melts in your mouth. This classic comfort food is a staple on many family dinner tables, passed down through generations and treasured for its ability to nourish the soul. With its inviting aroma and satisfying flavors, Smothered Chicken is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the warmth and hospitality of the South.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 5 thick-cut bacon strips
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon ground sage
- 1 beef bouillon cube or 1 teaspoon beef Better Than Bouillon
- 4 tablespoon butter
- 2 1/2 cup chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1/3 cup half-and-half (equal parts milk and cream)
- 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
- 2–3 drops Kitchen Bouquet (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dredge: Start by combining the flour, breadcrumbs, seasoned salt, black pepper, and all the dry seasonings on a large plate. This will be the dredge that will give the chicken its signature crispy crust.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium-low heat, cook the bacon until it’s crisp on both sides. Remove the bacon, crumble it, and set it aside. Reserve the flavorful bacon drippings in the pan.
3. Dredge the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts evenly to ensure even cooking, then coat them in the prepared dredge mixture, pressing the mixture onto the chicken to help it adhere.
4. Fry the Chicken: Add the vegetable oil to the bacon drippings and heat the mixture over medium heat. Carefully place the dredged chicken in the hot oil and fry until it’s golden brown on both sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
5. Make the Gravy: Pour off any excess oil, leaving about 2 tablespoon in the pan. Add the butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, half-and-half, and bouillon, stirring until the gravy is smooth and thickened.
6. Season the Gravy: Stir in the soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce, and a few drops of Kitchen Bouquet (if using) to enhance the flavor of the gravy.
7. Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top. Simmer the dish for about 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to become tender and the flavors to meld.
8. Finish and Serve: Top the Smothered Chicken with the crumbled bacon and serve hot, alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up every last bit of the delicious gravy.
Notes
Smothered Chicken is a great dish to prepare in advance. Store the chicken and gravy separately in the refrigerator, and reheat gently when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 150mg