Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a dish that’s bound to impress and comfort at the same time, this Best Smothered Chicken Breast recipe is it. With its succulent texture and rich flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or just a cozy evening in. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Moist and tender chicken that’s perfectly smothered in savory gravy.
- Simple ingredients that you likely already have at home.
- Ready in less than an hour, making it great for busy weeknights.
- A versatile dish that can be paired with almost any side.
- Leftovers (if any!) taste just as amazing the next day.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
Directions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear on each side for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy
In the same skillet, add butter and sliced onions. Cook until onions are soft, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir continuously for about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
Step 4: Smother the Chicken
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure they are covered with the gravy. Add thyme and reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute chicken broth with white wine. Here’s more on broth vs. stock.
- You can use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Use fresh herbs if available for more vibrant flavor. Learn about growing herbs.
Variations
- Mushroom Smothered Chicken: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms when sautéing onions.
- Cheesy Smothered Chicken: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the gravy before serving.
- Spicy Smothered Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a kick.
Required Equipment
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Whisk
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warm.
Suggested Pairings
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed vegetables
- Fresh salad
Pro Tips
- Use a cast-iron skillet for more even heat distribution. Learn about cast iron cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
- Adjust seasoning to taste after gravy thickens to ensure the flavors are balanced.
FAQ
- Can I use bone-in chicken? Yes, but adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked.
- What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can substitute it with half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter.
- Can I freeze this dish? While not ideal due to the cream, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently to prevent the sauce from splitting.