Indulge in a hearty smothered chicken recipe that combines tender, juicy chicken with a savory gravy and vibrant vegetables. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners and is sure to please everyone at the table. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s a recipe you’ll want to add to your regular rotation. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process to create this culinary delight!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1 cup sliced bell peppers
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons flour
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast with gravy) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 35g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, carrots, and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
6. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
7. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly until thickened.
8. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning gravy over the top.
9. Add sliced mushrooms and cover; simmer for 20 minutes.
10. Serve hot with a drizzle of gravy over the chicken.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor. For a lighter version, use skinless chicken. Swap out vegetables as desired; zucchini or green beans also work well in this dish.
Serving and Pairings
This smothered chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy. A side salad can add a fresh crunch to the meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning chicken; it may steam instead of sear.
– Avoid using high heat, as it can burn the gravy.
– Make sure to season adequately; under-seasoned chicken can be bland.
– Stir the gravy continuously when adding broth to avoid lumps.
– Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in spices overnight.
– Use homemade chicken broth for a richer taste.
– Adding a splash of white wine to the gravy can enhance its flavor.
– Adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more flour or broth to your preference.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking for even cooking.
What can I serve with smothered chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I make the gravy thicker?
To thicken the gravy, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water or increase the amount of flour used when preparing the gravy.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, smothered chicken can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add zucchini, green beans, or peas to the recipe for added nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
This smothered chicken recipe is a comforting classic that brings together tender chicken and savory gravy, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a meal that everyone will love and remember.
Smothered Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons flour
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
- Add chicken to the skillet and brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, carrots, and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spooning gravy over the top.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cover; simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot with a drizzle of gravy over the chicken.
