This Southern smothered chicken is packed with flavor. Tender chicken cooked in a creamy homemade onion and garlic gravy. It’s the ultimate Soul Food!
Whenever I make this Southern smothered chicken recipe, it reminds me of my childhood. Every Sunday, my mom would make a bigger-than-usual Southern-style Sunday dinner. The table always had sweet cornbread, collard greens with ham hocks, potato salad, and so much more. Sometimes there was catfish or ribs; but most of the time, it was chicken.
My mom made the best Southern smothered chicken when I was younger (I have her beat now!). My mother’s mothered chicken recipe had lots of gravy and onions and chicken so tender it would fall off the bone, all served over rice. I couldn’t get enough! On those warm weather days when we’d eat dinners outside, the whole block would be beggin’ for a bite, but I’d never share! Now that I’m grown and know how to cook, I’ve perfected my very own recipe for Southern smothered chicken, and in this post, I’m going to show you how to make it!
What Is Smothered Chicken?
Smothered chicken is a true Southern comfort food right outta the heart of the South. It’s made up of succulent pan-fried chicken that’s cooked in the creamiest brown gravy you can imagine. If y’all have been around for a while, you know that I have no shortage of smothered recipes. I’ve made smothered pork chops, smothered turkey necks, smothered oxtail, and a smothered beef roast. I even have recipes for smothered potatoes and smothered cabbage. You know you’re a true Southern Soul Food cook when you’re stocked full of smothered recipes!
Ingredients for Southern Smothered Chicken
So, first things first: what ingredients do you need to make smothered chicken? The good news is, like with many of my recipes, you probably have a lot of the ingredients already in your kitchen. This smothered chicken recipe is super flavorful and easy to make. Here’s everything you need.
- Chicken: I use chicken thighs and legs and keep the skin on.
- Onion & Garlic: aromatics to flavor the creamy onion gravy.
- Chicken Broth & Whole Milk: the liquid base of the gravy.
- All-Purpose Flour: for browning the chicken and thickening the gravy.
- Seasonings: I use a combination of salt, black pepper, poultry seasoning, celery seed, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Vegetable Oil: just a little bit is needed to help pan-fry the chicken.
Supplies & Equipment Needed:
- Large Bowl: for mixing the seasoned flour mixture and breading the chicken.
- Measuring Spoons: to measure out the seasonings.
- Measuring Cups: to measure the liquid ingredients.
- Kitchen Utensils: you’ll need a whisk, spatula or spoon, tongs, and a sharp knife for this recipe.
- Large Skillet: like a cast iron skillet, for this mostly one-pan meal.
- Paper Towel or Wire Rack: to drain the browned chicken after quick frying.
How to Make Southern Smothered Chicken
Making this soul food style smothered chicken could not be easier. We are going to brown the chicken and then cook the chicken in homemade creamy brown gravy that will also go great over mashed potatoes or rice! It’s a one-skillet meal that is oh-so-flavorful; it’s the definition of classic comfort food.
Smothered Chicken Video Tutorial
If you want the exact ingredient measurements and instructions, scroll on down to the recipe card at the end of this post! If you’re a visual learner, watch my step-by-step smothered chicken recipe video tutorial below. Don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel to see hundreds more delicious Southern and Soul Food recipes!
Step 1: Bread and Fry the Chicken
The first step is to dredge the chicken pieces in a seasoned flour mixture. To start, add the flour and seasonings into a large bowl and whisk together. If the flour is clumpy, run it through a sifter to get rid of lumps. Pat the (clean) chicken pieces dry with a paper towel, then coat the chicken, making sure it’s completely covered with that seasoned flour. Don’t toss out that excess flour—we’ll be using it to make our creamy gravy!
Next, we’re going to brown the chicken. Heat some vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, then fry the chicken on all sides until it’s nice and golden brown. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t completely cooked through—it’ll finish cooking in the gravy. We just want that nice, crispy browned chicken to have some flavor before smothering in the onion gravy.
Step 2: Make the Onion Gravy
Once the chicken is done browning, remove it from the pan and set it aside for a few minutes. Leave the oil and all those gloriously flavorful chicken drippings in the bottom of the pan! Toss the sliced onions into the pan and cook until soft and tender, about 2-3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. We don’t want to burn the garlic, or it will turn bitter and ruin the whole dish. Remove as much of the onion and garlic as possible before moving on to making the gravy.
Add a heaping tablespoon of that seasoned flour into the pan cook it for 1-2 minutes until it’s browned a little. Next, add the chicken broth and whole milk, stirring until everything is well combined. Don’t worry if the gravy looks a little thin at this point—it will thicken up while it cooks, turning into a creamy, flavorful, seasoned chicken gravy.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken in the Gravy
Finally, toss everything back into the skillet—the sauteed onions and garlic, and that browned chicken. Make sure it’s all nice and coated in the gravy, and then you’re going to cover the pan and let that smothered chicken cook for 30-35 minutes. At the end, you’ll have the creamiest onion gravy and fall-off-the-bone tender smothered chicken. I hope your mouth is watering just thinking about it, Cousins!
FAQs and Recipe Tips for Southern Smothered Chicken
I want y’all to make the most delicious version of this Southern food classic, so if you’ve got questions on how to perfect this recipe, I’ve got answers! Feel free to leave a comment down below letting me know how you customized this recipe, made it your own, or if you have any questions about ingredients or directions!
What are the best chicken pieces to use for smothered chicken?
In my Southern smothered chicken recipe, I prefer to use chicken drumsticks and thighs. I am a dark meat girl, and these cuts of chicken are juicy and tender when perfectly cooked. However, you could easily make this with chicken wings or boneless chicken breast. Pro-tip: if you prefer chicken breast, tenderize the surface of the breast with a meat tenderizer. This will help the seasoned flour breading stick, as well as thin out the breasts slightly so they cook more evenly. Keep in mind that the cooking times may change with other pieces of chicken. You always want the chicken cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Can I use heavy cream instead of milk for the gravy?
You sure can! Using heavy cream will result in a thicker, creamier gravy. You’ll want to use just a little bit less cream than the required measurement to account for the extra thickness of the cream.
What other seasonings can I use in smothered chicken?
You can use whatever seasonings your heart desires! If I used a seasoning or spice you don’t love, leave it out! Some other seasonings that would work great with smothered chicken and gravy are:
- Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning for more of that Southern flavor.
- Italian seasoning for more herbiness.
- Chili powder adds a smokiness that pairs well with smoked paprika.
- Chicken bouillon powder or cubes amplify that umami chicken flavor in the gravy.
Can I freeze leftover smothered chicken?
If there are any leftovers (not likely with this recipe 😉), you can freeze them for up to three months! Leftovers are best stored in an airtight container and will keep in the fridge for 4-5 days.
Can I use a gravy mix instead of making homemade gravy?
You certainly can, but let me tell you—making homemade gravy is crazy simple and way more delicious than a store-bought gravy mix! However, if you go the semi-homemade route, I’d suggest a brown gravy, peppered gravy, or mushroom gravy.
What to Serve with Southern Smothered Chicken
I typically serve my smothered chicken recipe over white rice and call it a day, but this Southern recipe pairs with plenty of delicious side dishes as well. To make a complete meal, serve smothered chicken with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes, cheesy scalloped potatoes, or Southern-style green beans and potatoes
- Collard greens, collards and cabbage, or collard greens dressing
- Buttermilk biscuits or homemade dinner rolls
- Southern potato salad
Make sure to save & share this recipe on Pinterest! Don’t forget to follow along with all things Rosie and I Heart Recipes by following me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest, and check out all my cookbooks!
Southern Smothered Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lbs chicken legs or thighs
- 1 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp celery seed
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 medium sized onion chopped
Instructions
- Start off by making sure that all of the chicken is nice and clean.
- Pour 1 1/2 cup flour into a large bowl, and add in seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, celery seed, poultry seasoning, and smoked paprika. Mix until well incorporated.
- Coat the chicken with the seasoned flour; make sure you coat all surfaces. Reserve the seasoned flour for making the gravy.
- Pour 1/4 cup of vegetable oil into a large pan, then place the plan over medium heat.
- Start adding in the chicken, but be sure to not over-crowd the pan (use a pan big enough to hold all of the chicken).
- Cook the chicken until it is golden brown (DO NOT worry about cooking the chicken until done, because we will cook it some more).
- Once the chicken is nice and browned, remove it from the pan. Leave the oil in the pan.
- Toss in the onions and cook them for about 2 minutes, then add in the garlic. Once the garlic is in the pan, let it cook for an additional minute, then remove the onions and garlic from the pan.
- Add three tbsp of the seasoned flour (the same flour that you coat the chicken with) to the pan. Stir in with the oil.
- Next, pour in 2 cups of chicken broth. Whisk in while pouring in the broth. Make sure there aren't any lumps.
- Let the gravy cook for about 2 minutes (still on medium heat), then pour 1 cup of milk into the pan.
- Let the creamy gravy cook for about 3 minutes, then start adding the chicken back into the pan, as well as the onions and garlic. Make sure all of the chicken is coated with the creamy gravy.
- Place a lid on the pan, then let the chicken cook for 30-35 minutes. Be sure to occasionally turn the chicken.
- Once done, serve the chicken with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite Southern side dishes.
- Enjoy!
Yasssssss honey! Your recipes are gonna get some girls some rings!!!!!!!! lol
Ha ha ha love that comment .
I hope I’m one of those gals getting a ring!
You’ll get that ring hunty!!!! XOXO
Thank you for this recipe I made it today for the first time and I say that i loved it and will continue to make it another time.
Thanks for trying my recipe!
Can you make video of you making the. Smothered chicken
There is a video 🙂
Thank you so much for the advice that was amazingly good. Yummy!
So similar to my mom’s smothered chicken! Good, old-fashioned, stick-to-your-ribs cooking! I’m so glad I found you. I already have one of your cookbooks, but I enjoy watching your videos. Thank you for all that you do! God Bless!
My family loved this recipe this is the only way I would make smothered chicken for know own. Thanks!
hahaha so true 😀
Yessssss
I agree!!! They have been a godsend for me
Wow delicious family love it ..thanks
This looks delicious and so simple! Please keep your recipes coming.
loving this comment!
Your smothered chicken looks Awesome and I can’t wait to try it.‼️
Love your recipes
I enjoy your videos and recipes. Thanks so much for your effort. I love to cook myself and I’m always looking for new things to try. I have used several of your recipes , there usually aren’t any leftover, but if there are left overs someone eats them the nest day.
Thanks John! I hope you enjoy the recipe as much I do!
So glad I found you. This is the second time I have made this recipe and my wife loves it. The homemade gravy is the Bomb!
Thanks for trying my recipe!
I started following your recipes several months ago. I am an experienced cook and with each recipe of yours that I prepare, I sincerely appreciate the quality of the flavors found in your dishes. Outstanding! My current favorite – Chicken smothered in onion & garlic gravy. Thank you for sharing your talent.
Thank you! I’m glad that you’ve been liking the recipes!
Hi Rosie your recipes are just wonderful…..love it
Thank you Ameena! XOXO
SUPERB! I made this tonight and my wife, son and I loved it! It’s a keeper for sure! I’d give 10 stars if I could. I followed this recipe exactly. This was SUPERB!
So glad that you liked the recipe Frank!
Hi Rosie, I try your smothered turkey wings delicious my friends love it I trying your smothered chicken today Thank you for sharing your recipes.
Made this for dinner tonight, man oh man, was it good. The whole family loved it. I doubled it, feeding a family of six, none was left over. I live in the south, and know good smotherd chicken, you nailed it!! I am glad I found your blog, will be back for some more great ideas.
Thank you for sharing!!
Hi Doni! I’m glad that you liked my recipe! 😀
I just ran across this an it sounds good . Fixing to try it , will let you know how i do . Thanks great videos !
Thank you Brenda! I appreciate you coming by! XOXO
It was awesome …. I added alittle more spices than called for but it was great … Thanks so much !
Thanks for giving it a try!! XOXO
Loved it. Made it last night but with chicken breasts and it was delicious. I added a little more pepper to the gravy and a small amount of chicken bouillon.
In your main photo I assume the green pieces were Parsley or Green onions, so added some chopped on top from my garden and it was so good.
I haven’t had smothered chicken since I was a kid when myfather made it. Yumm. Thank you for the recipe.
After watching your video I noticed there are 7 spices used, but you only mention 6. What’s the mystery spice?
Great eye!!! I can’t believe that I forgot that. It’s 1 tsp of poultry seasoning. 🙂
One of my friend shared this video on Facebook today and I knew I had to make. With the rainy weather we had today here in California this was the perfect dinner. My family was definitely comfortable eating this comfort food. My 6 year old son was also happy with tonight’s dinner.
Hi CaSondra! I’m glad that you’re friend shared the recipe, and you gave it a try!!! My 7 year old loves the chicken as well!! Thanks for coming by hun! Definitely stay in touch! XOXO
OMG, I ‘m writing this review while I’m eating my smothered chicken, and rice. It’s soooooooooo good! Thanks for the receipt!
Thank YOU for giving it a try!
Rosie, this is the real deal here. I love smothered chicken and haven’t had it in a long time. Yummy, this looks so good. What I love about your blog and recipes is that you post recipes that you and your family actually eat and enjoy, and that makes me have so much respect for you. So many times I see food bloggers posting recipes that other bloggers are posting and that to me isn’t authentic, but not you, you keep it real. Great recipe.
Aww. Thanks Neeli! I try to be as as real as possible. My goal is to show people the foods I grew up on, and cook for my family. I never want to stray away from that 🙂
Hey Rosie, this is the first time that I’ve tried a recipe from your blog and I have to say that it was delicious, my family put a hurtin’ on it. I used chicken thighs and thought that it was so good. Keep up the good work and I look forward to making more recipes from your blog.
This recipe was absolutely delicious
Rosie, your recipes are just wonderful. I am glad I am receiving them on my email. You cook like the old folks down south. Thanks keep cooking and sending us good recipes my ladies group will love this Southern Smothered Chicken.
Thank you hunny!! That is definitely my goal! To remind you of that good old school down south cookin’ 🙂
Hi Rosie,
I found you on YouTube because I wanted to try different southern style dishes other than the norm. I came to this page and I am so glad I did. I followed the receive and added all the spices except 2 (poultry seasoning and celery seed) and it turned out perfect. This was my first time actually making gravy and I’m so happy that my family enjoyed it. Thank you so much for sharing and I will be trying other dishes soon.
I’m glad that you liked the recipe Sonya! XOXO
I plan in trying this recipe tonight. I am not a fan of thighs or drums. Would it be the same with wings?
The only difference would be the cooking time, since wings are smaller.
OMG! I’m not a big fan of gravy but I thought this was a simple southern-style recipe and gave it a try…..
This is EASILY the tastiest, most flavorful chicken I’ve ever eaten. Words cannot describe how good this was. It’ll be my go-to recipe when I need to impress guests. It’s soooo good, I’m selfish and don’t want to share it with my mom lol. It’s soooo good, my boyfriend scraped the plate while trying to eat. Keep up the good work! This was the second recipe I’ve tried –the first was one macaroni and cheese that I made for a holiday dinner– I’m you’re number one fan!
I’m so glad that you liked the recipe sweetie!! XOXO
I just found your website, and all I have to say is where has it been all my life? I cannot wait to make this southern chicken for my midwestern husband later this week! 🙂
Awesome!! Let me know how it turns out for you! XOXO
Saw your sight today and I love how you show how to make these recipes, I can’t wait to make the Smothered Chicken I have your page on my desktop THANK YOU SO MUCH
Awesome!! Enjoy the smothered Chicken darlin’!
This looks so good! I want to try it but my father in law is lactose intolerant 🙁 can I substitute the whole milk for lactose intolerant friendly milk?
Sure! Use whatever milk works for you. 🙂
I did it without the milk and it was soooo good!! I’m lactose intolerant. I just added a few cubes of potato for the creaminess,?a little more water and seasoned to taste. It came out awesome! Will definitely add this recipe to the meals rotation.
I made this for the very first time tonight and there are no words to describe how delicious it was. My husband has requested I out this on the menu a few times a month and my son told me I knew how to make his belly happy . Thank you for sharing this recipe and I will most Definitely be using your site again.
AWESOME!! I’m glad that your family enjoyed the smothered chicken! XOXO
OMG! Almost 11pm in bed and I want to make and eat this up! Looks DELICIOUS!!! I saw the video of this recipe bubbling up in all it’s goodness. 🙂 Do you know if this would work using boneless chicken? How do you think the cooking time would change? Thank you in advance.
-gen SA, TX
Hi Genevieve. Yes, you can certainly use boneless chicken for this recipe. Also, the cooking time should be a little less, But not much.
Oh my I made this tonight and it is so good, chicken nice and tender and the gravy is yummy IT IS a keeper for this household THANK YOU
Thank You Rosie, you just made me a happy cooker. Love all your recipes.
My sister made this yesterday and she said it was so easy to make and my nephews ( very picky eaters) enjoyed it as well:-)
Awesome! glad that they liked it!
Either I haven’t eaten in a week or your recipes look amazing because I’m drooling on my computer (ok, I may have licked the screen). I’m going to try this smothered chicken, and then you are bookmarked for future drooling. Thanks!
LOL! thanks for coming by!
Rosie, I made this dish today; it was delicious! I know you said to keep the heat on medium, but I don’t know if you are using gas heat or electric heat. I am using electric heat, and I had to keep it a little higher than medium.
I use a electric stove & oven 🙂
So I am going to try this for dinner tonight, this looks freaking amazing. Although the facebook page that I found this recipe on had only half of the ingredients
https://www.facebook.com/jomkerjadarirumah/videos/10153163234564553/ anyways, when I get done making it tonight, i’ll tell you how it turned out 🙂
Your recipes are devine ms.Diva!!!! I just tried the smothered chicken and gravy over rice,and served it with some cheddar buscuits,my hubby and daughter were in heaven,lol. Keep up the great work..
I’m glad that you liked it!
Loved this recipe, made it for the family the other day using some boneless chicken thighs and they loved it. I added a little chopped up capricola and a jalapeno and it turned out great. Saving this one for sure.
M
Thanks for trying out my recipe!
I tried this recipe today for the first time but I used boneless chicken and it was AMAZING!!! Even my picky kids loved it! Thanks for sharing your recipes..I will definitely be trying out a lot more of them
AWESOME!!! Thanks for giving my recipe a try.
Hi Rosie, I just cooked this Southern Smothered Chicken and it was so good my family really enjoyed it, thank you for the recipe. I will definitely be trying some of your other recipes.
Thanks for giving it a try!
I have been in a bit of a cooking rut lately. I was trying a bunch of new recipes, but none of them were that great 🙁 I stumbled across this recipe via YouTube and thought I would give it a try. Wow, this tasted so good! I feel like I have groove back 🙂 I can’t wait to try some of your other recipes. Thank you!
Thanks for coming by olga
Rosie I just love your recipes. I don’t know if its me or what but can you tell me where to find smoky paprika ? I’ve looked and looked. I’m I missing something somewhere ? Please help ! I’m also going to order your cookbook i can’t wait to get it. Super excited since all your recipes are big hits with my family. Thank you ! Wishing you a blessed day. xo
Hi Carol! I buy my smoked paprika at Trader Joes. I think Safeway has it as well. 🙂
Thank you ! I’ll head to trader Joe’s today. Love any excuse to go there lol.. Have a wonderful weekend Rosie !!!
No problem! Enjoy your weekend as well! XOXO
I love your recipes, I am a sub on your Youtube channel , I have made some of your recipes and they turned out great, you are a great cook.
Thank you! I appreciate you subscribing to my YouTube channel!! XOXO
Rosie I have a question for you. Do you have any recipes for fried chicken gizzards ? My kids and I just love them and I’d love to find a good recipe for them. Thank you, Carol
Hi Carol! I do have a recipe for fried chicken gizzards, but it’s not posted. I will try to upload it soon.
Thank you !
Was looking on here for chicken leg recipes and came across this thank God all you ever see is a lot of baked fried are barbecue and I’m going to try this but would you have anything for pork chops my husband don’t like them unless I make in a gravy says other ways it’s always dry any idea on other ways to cook them I loved the video thanks for sharing
Hello! Yes, I have a smothered pork chop recipe as well.
Can I just say…..ooooooommmmmmmggggeeerrrdddddd!!!!!
I just finished making this and my family is in love with this meal. My husband said,add it to your meal plans.. Kids say,bomb.com This was a hit. Thanks for a great recipe and sharing your family story. I topped it over rice. It was AMAZZZZIIINNGG!!!
Thank you for giving my recipe a try!
Rosie!!!! I’ve made several of your receipes I’m so greatful for you! Because of you I’m stepping outside of my weekly meals and you are very, very informative! Not only that but usually your meals go far in my house hold I’m looking forward to trying this smothered chicken this week!
Awesome Chaniece! I’m glad that I could help! XOXO
Hi I love your recipes ! If I make this without the poultry seasoning and celeray seeds will it still have a great taste? I’m not familiar with those two seasonings so I am a bit skeptical… But only because I don’t know what they tast like.
It won’t taste the same, but you can give it a try.
i tried smothered pork chops which i LOVE but most of the time the meat turns out tough to chew. I found this recipe on pinterest and has been on our weekly menu rotation ever since. Serve it with noodles and steamed veggies… BOOM!!! Thank you for sharing
Thanks for trying my recipe Shanti! XOXO
I have been watching all your videos and coveting all of your recipes. I think I am in love! Making this now and the house smells ahhhmazing! Keep the soul food coming!
Hi! I’m glad that you like my recipes 🙂
Hi Rosie, i was looking for a new recipe for smothered chicken and just happenened up on your wed site, best discovery ever. i tried this recipe last week after watching the video and it was so good. thank you so much. your recipes are so easy to follow and calls for everything i keep in my kitchen. thanks again, your are the best.
Thank you for trying my recipe Ruby. I’m glad that you found my website!
Thank you for your recipes & blog, I grew up with a mom that did NOT cook at ALL would ask people that will only laugh and make jokes about how I didn’t know how to cook. I have always wanted to learn now I watch you on you tube, look at your pics on IG & use your recipes & they come out soooooo good, I’m so happy you have a desire to help others thank yo so much.
I’m a new cooker and every time I use one of your recipes my family loves it! Sometimes I have to step back like “Did I just cook that?” Lol but, thanks for the awesome recipes keep them coming!!!
Hi Teshanna!!! THANK YOU for trying my recipes hunny!
Rosie, this was absolutely fabulous! My southern husband just loved this. It was the best tasting chicken gravy I have ever made. Thank you so much for sharing this recipe. The video was so helpful too! Cheers!
Hi Amy! I’m glad that you liked the recipe! XOXO
I love this recipe for date night! But I was wondering if I could use boneless and if so what kind should I get??
You sure can 🙂
HI rosier I LOVE YOUR WEBSITE AND ALL YOUR RECIPES YOU ARE A LIFE SAVER lol question ?? Can I cook this in the oven ?? My large skillet only holds about 4-6 pieces of chicken depending on size and I liked this so much the first time I made this I wanted to know if there was a way for me to make this in the oven so I can add more.
Definitely. You can brown everything, and make the gravy in the pan, then transfer it to the oven. 🙂
This is the BEST chicken and gravy. The only one i’ll ever have to use. I forgot to buy milk so i had to use a can of evaporated milk i had on hand and it was just as delicious..In fact, next time i will only use the canned milk, just gave it a richer flavor.
So glad that you liked the recipe Jen! XOXO
This looks amazing will be giving it a try tonite God willing
This is fabulous. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Rosie! I Am from the south, Mississippi! My grandmother use to cook smothered chicken and we all loved it growing up! Best part was to make a big old pan of cornbread and put that gravy over it! . I’m gonna try your tonight, will give you a review on the results. Thanks!!
Keep me updated! XOXO
I was nervous about making this recipe because I am fairly new at cooking , I got enough courage to make it today it was not that complicated the way you wrote instructions and the video helped a lot ! I had it ready for dinner when my husband walked in from work .
My husband cleaned the plate and said ” Wow its like a chef came and made this ! Lol it was soo good !! We even High-fived at the end of dinner !!!!
You go girl!!! *High-Five*!!!
I made this for dinner last night and it was sooooooo DELICIOUS!!!
Even though i used all chicken breast, the chicken was super moist and just full of flavor.
Thank you so much for all your delicious recipes, im in love with your website.
Hi Lex! Thanks for trying my recipe. Please come by often to check out new post! XOXO
Southern Smothered Chicken Recipe – I only need to say: Sooooo good!
YAY! Glad that you liked it!
Rosie, This smothered chicken was absolutely fabulous! My family gave it 5⭐️’S❣️You made it so easy and it looked just like you’d did! So happy I found your site! Warmest regards, Jennifer
HI Jennifer! I’m glad that you liked my recipe! XOXO
I am making this recipe now and it smells amazing! Tasted the gravy before putting the chicken back in and it’s definitely selfish!! Thank you for sharing your recipes with us! Every one I have made so far has been fabulous!
I am making this recipe now and it smells amazing! Tasted the gravy before putting the chicken back in and it’s definitely delish!! Thank you for sharing your recipes with us! Every one I have made so far has been fabulous!
I am making this recipe now and it smells amazing! Tasted the gravy before putting the chicken back in and it’s definitely delish!! Thank you for sharing your recipes with us! Every one I have made so far has been fabulous! 5 Star recipe
YUM! This sounds amazing girl!!! It sounds like a winner, soI’m going to make it soon! Thanks for the recipe. Cindy
Thanks for coming by Cindy!
How would I do this with boneless chicken?
You’d prepare it the same way, but the cooking time would be less.
Hey rosie,
I cooked the smoothered southern chicken and rice recipe it it was delicious and easy to follow the recipe.it brought back memories of my moms cooking now i can do myself . thank you looking forward to trying some of your other recipes.
Hi Thomas! I’m glad that you like the recipe. I have many more coming!
I!m a 67 year old women from Memphis who just retired and pretty much cook the same recipes as you. BUT I have found a few new pointers and new ways (Neck Bones in the crockpot). I love your Website. Will be trying this one this week since you make your gravy differently and it sounds great. Keep up the good work.
Hi Frances! I’m so glad that you found my blog. Definitely try this recipe, and let me know what you think. XOXO
I’ve made this several times over the last 3 months, my fiance loves it. His brother will be in from out of town tomorrow night and I’ll be trying it out with boneless chicken breasts and thighs, more to go around.
Hey Tiffany! I’m so glad that you like my recipe! Boneless chicken breast sounds great!
I’ve made this several times over the last 3 months, my fiance loves it. His brother will be in from out of town tomorrow night and I’ll be trying this out with boneless chicken breasts and thighs, more to go around.
Hi Rosie, how would I cook the Smothered Chckem in the slow cooker instead of the oven? Thanks!
Made this for my dinner tonight, It’s just me so not as much chick but the full recipe of the gravy.
SO GOOD!
This just begs for homemade drop dumplings or would dumplings not make it “smothered”? Lol, I’m a yankee girl.
Rosie, thank you for all your wonderful recipes! I would love to see you on “CHopped” — you’d clean everyone’s clock!
OMG,that sounds good! The dumpling might take up too much of the gravy, but it still sounds delicious!
Oh, my. This makes me want to run to the kitchen and start cooking.
You gotta try this recipe. It’s amazing! 😀
Hi Rosie. I want to do this recipe with boneless skinless chicken breasts. What would I need to do differently?
Thanks in advance for your response.
Hi Sherri! Yes, you can use chicken breast. It will take less time to cook, so keep an eye on it. 😀
This came out good. I love this recipe!
Thanks for trying!
Hello, I just discovered you on YouTube. I love your videos straight to the point and you are so pleasant to listen to and watch! I am a very big fan! I thought I was a pretty good cook before but now with you by my side. …look out . Lol….just wanted to let you know that I love your recipes. Thanks so much for the cooking lessons. They are very much appreciated by me and my family, god bless
Maureen
Awee!! Thanks so much for the kind words Maureen! Please subscribe to my blog if you haven’t already. I upload here more! XOXO
Making this tonight, it sounds and smells so delicious!!
I made this tonight but finished it off in the oven.. I added green onions, bell pepper, mushrooms and tomatoes to mine. All 6 drum sticks gone between me and a 6 year old child. Lol, this is a keeper. Thank you for the recipe
LOL!! Glad that you liked the recipe!
I just made this and added some chicken bouillon so delicious. Thanks for sharing
Wow, this recipe is delicious!! Thanks for sharing!!
Thanks for trying Paula!
Loved this recipe came out sooo good.
Thanks for trying Char!
Would anything about the cooking time changed if i used a whole cut up chicken instead of legs and thighs? Thanks in advance:)
Hi Ana! The cooking time may change. Just keep an eye on it 🙂
What if i dont have celery seed but can i use celery salt instead
I don’t suggest adding celery salt. That’s would be adding more salt to the recipe.
This looks so good! Can it be made in a crockpot?
There would be different steps, but sure.
Can you tell us what the steps would be to make this in a crockpot?
Pretty much what you mention earlier. Brown the chicken, make the gravy and etc, then toss it in the slow cooker . XOXO
This recipe is delicious.. I actually made it 2 years ago and forgot to give a review. The smoked paprika really gave it some good flavor! That’s a regular seasoning I use now. I feel so proud making this lol its funny. It makes people think im a good cook. haha 🙂
Just made it for dinner tonight – absolutely delicious
I’ve never had smothered anything before but always craved it. I made this tonight and omg it was so bomb!!!! I didn’t have celery seed so I just added 1/2 tsp more of poultry seasoning (I use lawrys). I love your recipes! Thank you for sharing!
I made this tonight and also your slow cooker yams. My husband was overjoyed. Thank you so much!
Thanks for trying!! XOXO
Can I make this in a crock pot?
Sure can.
I made this for my Boy Scouts and adult leaders on a campout a couple weeks ago and it was a huge hit and will be made again for sure!! It was the best smothered chicken ever!!! Thanks for sharing this incredible recipe!!!
Thanks for trying!
When I first saw this recipe I was in love. After I made it I was convinced that Rosie had developed the perfect Southern Smothered Chicken Recipe. I’ve already made this several times. Initially, made it exactly to the recipe. Since then I’ve made a couple of minor changes. I prefer my gravy made with butter so I reduced the oil to a minimal amount (to saute the chicken), cooked the onions in the oil then replaced the oil with butter to make the grave. My family loves onions, so, I used a jumbo sweet onion sliced. Finally, we like a little heat, so I added a 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper to the dredge. My wife, my neighbor and her 4 kids all say this recipe is a keeper. Rosie, Thank for sharing this delicious recipe.
So glad that you like the recipe!
OMG….OH MY GAWD!!! This recipe is SO delicious! I made this and felt like a REAL SOUTHERNER! I wanted to drink the gravy with a straw! I did a happy dance and my mother wanted to try the gravy and she couldn’t stop exclaiming. My daughter tried it and demanded to know why I wasn’t cooking biscuits. The chicken (used boneless thighs) was spectacular and the seasoned flour is going to become my **only** seasoned flour recipe. This will become a staple in my home and my daughter is already requesting it again. WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER!
Omg! This was delicious! I used boneless chicken breast and doubled the recipe and put it over rice and quinoa. Thank you!
Thank you! I have been looking for a good recipe for a southern style “chicken dinner” with gravy to be served over white rice for a long time. I used garlic powder instead of minced garlic and didn’t have the celery seed but it still turned out so good. Pure comfort food also reminded me of my dad’s cooking I loved so much. Thank you.
I’m trying this tonight, but i’m a little confused. It says 1 pound of chicken. Isn’t that just one chicken thigh or leg?
No. 1 lb of chicken is not one piece.
*Drooling* This looks delicious and like such a warm, comforting dish. Thank you for sharing it with us. I love making food from my childhood. It always takes me back to happy, simpler times!
I just made this using chicken tenders for the kiddos. Love it !!!!
I made this for my wife and kid last night. It was stunningly delicious!
Haven’t tried the recipe yet, but i’m certainly going to. i’ll let you know how I like it afterwards. By the way, you are a beautiful young lady. Love your picture. By the way, I’m not a stalker. I just know beauty when I see it because I’ve been around for almost 76 years.
Thanks for stopping by Mariam!
Stumbled across this recipe on the great Google. Glad I did.
Thank you, can’t wait to try this. Missing the whole milk so gonna be risky and use evaporated milk or coconut milk. We’ll see how it turns out LOL.
OMG This was so wasy!!! Delicious! Will double recipe next tine. ❤
After I brown the chicken and make the gravy can I throw everything in the crockpot and let it cook in there?
Hi Alesha! Absolutely hun! XOXO
Can I make this and add it in the crock pot ? The same way you did the smothered pork chops
This was a great! A must save. Thanks
Husband said this was probably the best meal I have ever made! We’ve been together for 15 years so I think that is quite the compliment! I had 4 pounds of chicken breast to use up. It was 5 breasts so I cut them up into smaller pieces. I started out with the original 1.5 cups of flour mixture and if I ran out I would make more, but I still had plenty of leftover after dredging all of the chicken pieces. I used all the spices except I had no poultry seasoning or celery seed and I had Spanish paprika not smoked. I threw in an extra tsp of garlic powder and 1 tbsp of Mesquite seasoning and a dash of cayenne. I browned the chicken in 2 batches in my electric skillet, adding another 1/4 cup of vegetable oil for the second batch. I probably browned the pieces a little longer than necessary but they were really thick pieces. I had to use my dutch oven to cook all the chicken together. I just sauteed the little bit of frozen onion I had left in the dutch oven with a little oil so I wouldn’t have to transfer the onion out of the electric skillet I was going to make the gravy in. I did double the gravy and I used 2% milk cause that is all I had. I then set all the browned chicken in the dutch oven and poured the gravy from the electric skillet over the top. I’m pretty sure the chicken was done in about 20 minutes but I let it go a little longer. Served this with Idahoan instant potatoes (best instant potatoes ever) and added some butter to them and canned corn. It was truly an amazing meal that I will make many more times. I plan on picking up poultry seasoning and celery seed next time I’m at the store! Thank you for sharing this incredible recipe! That was definitely a novel! 🙂
Hi June!!! Thank you so much for trying my recipe!! Glad that you and your hubby loved it! XOXO!!
Hey Rosie I am new to your site. Girl OMG I have literally stood in one spot for 3 hours printing my favorite recipes of yours. This is a dish I have only cooked like once in my life time. I just could never make gravy from scratch my mother was a cook. Not me at that time. But this recipe looks so darn good. I am going to try it and I will hit you up and let you know. You keep on cooking girl. Lawd have mercy. Cynthia
Hi!!!
This dish is (in my Oprah voice) AMAZING!
I made it with boneless skinless chicken breast and needles to say the least… we ate it “from the rooda’’ to the tooda’!
Still killing it in 2020.
Congratulations on a great recipe!
Wow! Best new recipe I’ve tried lately. Made it for my family tonight and it was a hit!!
Made this recipe a couple weeks ago and again tonight! Even my picky “I don’t like chicken” teen said “I’d order this in a restaurant!” This is a family joke and means that they love it! I used breasts, cut into chunks and put my flour and spices in a ziplock bag for easy toss and cleanup!
Thanks for this wonderful recipe and helping me find a dish my whole family loves!!
So glad that you and your family like my recipe! XOXO
Hi Rosie, I’m new to your Blog and what pulled me in was your smothered chicken someone else had shared. I was hooked! I made the smothered chicken for Sunday night dinner yesterday and it was AWESOME! Next time I make it I will pour off some of the oil before I add the onions, I may have added too much and it came out greasy but the flavor was wonderful! Hubby ate 3 out of 4 drumsticks..lol I have seen other recipes I intend to try soon….maybe 1 or 2 a week. I love this blog!!!
HiTheda!! Sorry for the late response, but I’m so glad that you found my blog! XOXO
This was amazing!! Thank you for the recipe
Hey Rosie.
This is another recipe I’m going to try. I just want to know if I should use fresh garlic or crushed.
You can use either, but I prefer fresh if its on hand.
Ok. It’s awesome. I added celery to my vegetables. Substituted cream of mushrooms for the milk. Now my husband has something negative to say about EVERYTHING. While everyone else raves about my cooking. Asking for 2nds and if possible, 3rds. He’s sitting down eating this dish now, head down, not a word! I look over again and he’s taking his fingers to slope up specks of gravy. Enough said other than THANK YOU!
Can you finish this recipe in the oven?
Hi Kim! Yes, you can do that.
Rosie-this recipe is amazing! Easy to make and truly superb! Your instructions are clear and easy to follow. One of the most satisfying dishes I have ever made. It will become a regular item on the menu at my house!
Thanks so much for trying my recipe Pete!
I just made this for my family in Northern Cali. My husband said he wanted some comfort food for the rainy weather. I made this and the kids and my husband and I love it. Can’t wait to try more recipes.
Thank you so much for trying my recipe!! XOXO
I’ve been craving smothered chicken and rice for the longest so I found this recipe and just made it and it is so freaking good. My two teen sons and my husband said it tastes really good and they’re killing it right now!
I follow the recipe to a T even use celery seed! But sprinkled a bunch of black pepper on my chicken and rice at the end! Also Used medium grain sticky rice in my rice cooker, don’t use instant yall! Way better this way. Thank u for this recipe, very very good! Wish we could post a photo of our results, mine is so purty
Gotta say. Perfect. You might change a thousand spices or meats or liquids and it will still be amazing. This is an amazingly helpful recipe. You might add sour cream and chives, add a bit of butter, I used basmati rice. And perhaps a bit of vermouth…lol. It can be engineered up to a French cuisine dish or down to a weekday dinner. I applaud you.
We need ways to cook, not just ingredient lists, and this one is precious. God bless you. I never find online cooks to be helpful in specifics, but this worked right out of the chute.
Thank you for sharing your recipe! The video was excellent and quick…appreciate that it did not include lots of rambling and was clear and pleasant.
The smothered chicken is most excellent! I first saw a similar recipe on a television cooking segment and made a search just to find measurements and times. Cooking this again for eight guests on Monday. Plan to cook eight breasts in two pans.
Thanks so much for trying!
Rosie, we don’t use milk or flour in our house so I’m wondering if you can suggest an alternative…
I was thinking of using what I do have which is can of chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, half a packet of dry Lipton onion soup mix & cornstarch if needed as a thickener…
What are your thoughts on this/do you think it would work AND can you PLEASE give me any suggestions/tips/hints to make this work!?!?
Thanks in advance!
Hi Sherry! I suggest using a different recipe if you can’t have those ingredients. Please keep in mind that cream of mushroom soups, and packages onion soups contain milks, creams, flours, and other ingredients. Therefore you wouldn’t be able to use those either.
So good!
So reminiscent of my mothers cooking! Took me back to the smell of my moms kitchen. Thanks for the memories!
Wonderful chicken recipe. Have amended for just 2 people using chicken breasts and dairy allergy using almond milk. My husband loves this!!! Thank you!
Thanks so much for trying my recipe!
Love your recipes
This is awesome, you and I cook alike.
I am from South Georgia, and this is how my family cooks. ❤️
XOXO
Great!!!!
I love it. It came out perfectly tasty. Thank you ☺️
This looks delicious. Can’t wait to try it
Looks good. I will try it.
Best recipe ever!!!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Rosie, your recipe is phenomenal! I like to try new recipes on-line. None of them have been keepers. This is a keeper! How delicious! My husband and I love it. My spoiled dog does too. Thank you for posting this wonderful recipe!
Oh, honey, this is the recipe from my childhood, except Mother never put celery seed in hers. I personally don’t care for celery or celery seeds (not that I pick them out of what someone else cooks) so I leave them out. I’ve been twitching for this, butt right now I’m on my own (my darling husband is in the hospital) but I can cut a recipe down. Thank you for posting this wonderful Southern classic.
Hey there Karen! You can definitely cut this recipe in half. Praying for a speedy recovery for your husband! XOXO
My family love this smothered chicken recipe. I now cook my cube steaks the same way. God bless you and your family.
Thanks for trying my recipe! XOXO
Excellent, knew it would be good. Similar to how I cook it. But addition of some of your ingredients took it to another level.
Thanks so much for trying my recipe John!
This chicken was delicious and brought back fond memories of my Mother. I did put chicken in a baking dish and finish cooking in the oven as that is what my Mom did. So happy to have found this recipe. My thanks.
Darlin’, you’ve got me all emotional talkin’ about family memories and home-cooked goodness! . I’m so glad you found that chicken recipe and made it your own by cookin’ it up in the oven like your Mom used to do. That’s what cooking’s all about, Honey, putting your own love and flavor into it. You keep honoring those memories, and I’m here for you with more deliciousness. Big love, darlin’!
Smothered chicken was delicious
Oh, honey, I’m glad you liked it! Now, next time, try my collard greens to go with it. The combination is amazing.
Hi Rosie I’ve been using the recipes on your page and everything is so delicious today for my Sunday meal I made the smothered chicken oh my God it was so delicious I follow you and I have made some good food with the your recipes thank you much
Oh, honey, I’m thrilled to hear you enjoyed the smothered chicken recipe! Thank you for your kind words, dear. Keep cooking and feel free to reach out anytime.
I always loved my mom’s version of smothered chicken she made with Cream of Mushroom soup. This is, hands down, the best-smothered chicken I have ever made! I have always been the cook in my family and I made this yesterday for my wife and she LOVED it! We both did! So glad I found this recipe.
Oh wow!! That is such an amazing compliment. Thank you so much for trusting, and trying my recipe!
I made this for my family tonight and they all loved it! So delicious!!
Great recipe!
Delicious
Thanks Rosie for bringing this recipe to us. I made Smothered Chicken per your instructions and it was fantastic!!
This brought back good memories from my time down south with family and school. Tuskegee University, You Know!!
Absolutely deliciousand easy to make, will make again, I followed the directions as stated.. Thank you cousin Rosie
Absolutely deliciousand easy to make, will make again, I followed the directions as stated.. Thank you cousin Rosie I would give 10* if I could.
In my part of the country we often call smothered chicken sticky chicken and sometimes we add baby Lima beans to it.. when we make a roux with our chicken we call that a chicken stew. Both are very delicious.
Made this recipe and it turned out great!
Thank you Rosie. Your instructions were short and provided the necessary instructions and precautions.
Thank you again
Hi Rosie! I am from Baton Rouge. Small world. Your smothered chicken recipe is exactly how my mom made it. Like yours, there were never any leftovers. I love that you kept it simple and did not try to fancy it up with unnecessary ingredients. Delicious southern cooking at it’s best!
Been looking for a recipe like this for a long time. I remember my grandma making this, it was my favorite. I looks like what I remember her making so will be using this tomorrow and will let you know how it is. Thanks for providing it.
PS don’t see you on YouTube any more, followed you for a long time.
Hi Rosie, just made your smothered chicken in Singapore, the land of the foodies and it was a smashing success Really appreciate your improvisation suggestions as I added a little bit of cream and Cajun seasoning. My wife and son we’re both really happy with it and got the thumbs up to do it again. At the same time got to give them a briefing on how good southern cooking is and they now agree! Thanks for sharing this and will check out more of your recipes.
Turned out just like I thought it would, it lioked delicious in the pic Rosie and tasted fantastic. Appreciate the recipe,
True southern gold! Thank you for this!
Thank you , Happy New Year , 2924
Super good! Made it last night, great cold weather meal. Super simple, yet delish.
I used it as a base to my chicken pot pie, added carrots, peas and celery. Yum!
Very easy and full of flavor. I had more than a pound of leg quarters so I doubled the gravy, I also added sliced mushrooms when I was cooking down the onions. When I make it again I will use boneless and skinless thighs. Wife took off the skin anyway.
I’m new at cooking but I could eat chicken for 3 meals a day. Great recipe
And Iove your voice !
Rosie!
You took me back girl! It was the best comfort food I’ve had in a long while. Smothered chicken, mashed potatoes, black-eyed peas and cornbread……ummmmm….just like my Mamaw used to make!
Really Delicious will make again.
I tried this it was very good. The family wanted more. The second time I made this I added some chopped celery and mushrooms when I put the onions in the skillet. And I added heavy cream instead of milk. I was a little richer.
This looks so good. I can’t wait to try it.
Does the recipe work well with refrigerating after preparation?
Yes, you can just warm it up in the oven the next day.
I have not eaten this dish yet- im 5 mins away- looks delicious and smells wonderful. I used my large stainless steel skillet and it allowed plenty of room for chicken and gravy. Used thighs cause we’re dark meat people.
I am from Shreveport LA
. I am trying your smothered Chicken recipe. Sure looks good! Will let you know how my family likes it!
Delicious!
Great with some fresh mushrooms added to onion and garlic also!
Thanks!
It looks very delicious
Omg it is so good! It’s in the pan cooking still, but the gravy is so yummy that I keep tasting it lmao. Making it with some green beans and ham with mashed taters. Thank you!!!
Thanks for giving my recipe a try! XOXO
The best smothered chicken I have ever made. So easy to make. Hu
Sounds wonderful will definitely try this week!
10 years later you are still helping people make great smothers chicken! Thanks so much for this recipe. Fyi I looked at several others and came back to yours
Aweee. Thanks Jasmine! So glad that you like my recipe. XOXO
Hello Rosie,
I have subscribed to your recipes for the last few years and especially love this one being very flavorful.
I love the PNW also as I lived in Kirkland for 11yrs.
Thank you beautiful Lady for sharing such wonderful recipes.
Silvana.