Smothered Skillet Chicken

This comforting Smothered Skillet Chicken features beautifully seared chicken pieces enveloped in a rich, savory gravy, all cooked in one pan. It's a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for a family dinner.

Smothered Skillet Chicken
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 38 minutes
  • Total time: 48 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 4-6 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet. Add sliced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 7-10 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the gravy to a simmer, stirring until it thickens.
  6. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the gravy. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and tender.
  7. Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot, ideally with mashed potatoes or rice.

Tips

  • Ensure chicken is patted very dry before searing for the best golden-brown crust.
  • Do not rush the cooking of the flour in the roux; it helps prevent a raw flour taste.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the gravy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different vegetables in this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, carrots, or celery. Just ensure they are cut to a similar size for even cooking.

How can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?

To thicken the gravy, you can simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes, or mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir into the simmering gravy. To thin it, simply add a bit more chicken broth.

What's the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the gravy seems too thick, until heated through.