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easy smothered chicken recipe
Ben Carraoli

Easy Smothered Chicken Recipe

When it comes to preparing a comforting and satisfying meal, an easy smothered chicken recipe is one of those dishes that delivers both flavor and simplicity. It’s the kind of meal that can be thrown together with minimal effort yet still impress everyone at the dinner table.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken breasts 4 boneless, skinless: Tender and lean cuts of chicken work best for this recipe as they cook quickly and evenly, ensuring the sauce doesn’t overwhelm the chicken.
  • Flour 1/4 cup: Flour helps create a smooth, thick base for the sauce while giving the chicken a slight coating, which adds texture.
  • Olive oil 2 tablespoons: Olive oil is used to sear the chicken, giving it a crispy texture. It’s a heart-healthy choice compared to butter, but you can also use vegetable oil if needed.
  • Garlic 3 cloves, minced: Garlic adds an aromatic depth to the sauce, balancing the richness of the cream.
  • Onion 1 medium, finely chopped: Onion brings a mild sweetness and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlic in the sauce.
  • Chicken broth 1 cup: Chicken broth is essential for creating a flavorful sauce and helps to deglaze the pan, lifting the fond (caramelized bits).
  • Heavy cream 1 cup: Heavy cream adds a rich and smooth texture to the sauce, making it creamy and comforting. For a lighter version, you could substitute with half-and-half or whole milk.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Always season your chicken well before searing to enhance its natural flavor.
  • Paprika 1 teaspoon: Adds a smoky flavor to the sauce, giving it a subtle depth. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
  • Fresh thyme 1 tablespoon: Fresh thyme works wonderfully in this recipe, adding an herby aroma that complements the savory flavors.
  • Fresh parsley for garnish: Parsley adds a fresh, bright contrast to the rich dish.

Method
 

  1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. The seasoning is essential to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken. Once the chicken is seasoned, lightly coat each breast in flour. This helps create a crispy golden crust when searing and thickens the sauce later.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Searing the chicken adds flavor and texture. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
  3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. This step adds sweetness to the sauce and brings out the flavors of the garlic. Once the onion and garlic are cooked, pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits (fond). Add the heavy cream, paprika, and thyme, stirring to combine.
  4. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top of the chicken. Lower the heat to medium and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened. The sauce will absorb into the chicken, making it flavorful and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.
  5. Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. The parsley adds a burst of color and a refreshing note to balance the richness of the sauce. Serve your smothered chicken with mashed potatoes, rice, or any side of your choice to enjoy the creamy sauce.