Craig Claiborne’s Smothered Chicken

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. This helps ensure a nice golden crust when you fry them. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Dredge the Chicken:

In a shallow bowl or plate, spread the flour. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides. Shake off any excess flour to avoid a lumpy gravy later on.

3. Brown the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and brown them on both sides for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden and crispy. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to work in batches. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onions and cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and become translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This will create a flavorful base for the gravy.

5. Make the Gravy:

Sprinkle the paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the onions and garlic. Stir for about a minute to let the spices bloom. Next, pour in the chicken broth while stirring to incorporate the browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this is called deglazing and adds deep flavor to your gravy). Add the bay leaf and stir everything together.

6. Simmer the Chicken:

Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the gravy. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 25-30 minutes. This slow cooking allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the gravy while remaining tender and juicy.

7. Final Touches:

Once the chicken is cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C), remove the skillet from the heat. Discard the bay leaf and taste the gravy for seasoning, adjusting with salt and pepper as necessary. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken and gravy for a pop of color and freshness.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your Smothered Chicken over a bed of rice, with a side of mashed potatoes, or alongside warm biscuits to soak up the delicious gravy. You can also pair it with sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Why You’ll Love Craig Claiborne’s Smothered Chicken:

• Rich and Flavorful: The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors of the savory gravy, while the caramelized onions and garlic add depth to the dish.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish embodies the essence of Southern comfort food – hearty, satisfying, and perfect for any family meal or special occasion.
• Versatile: While traditionally served with rice or potatoes, you can pair it with just about any side dish of your choice, making it a great meal for all seasons.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples like chicken broth, flour, and spices, this dish proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make a delicious meal.

Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken:

• Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in chicken, whether it’s thighs or breasts, tends to stay juicier and more flavorful than boneless cuts. The bone adds richness to the gravy as it simmers.
• Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the chicken first creates a beautiful, crispy crust that adds texture and flavor to the dish.
• Gravy Consistency: If the gravy becomes too thick during cooking, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken.
• For Extra Flavor: For an added depth of flavor, use bacon drippings or butter to brown the chicken instead of vegetable oil. This adds a rich, smoky taste to the gravy.

Final Thoughts:

Craig Claiborne’s Smothered Chicken is a quintessential comfort food that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The tender chicken, savory gravy, and aromatic spices come together to create a hearty, soul-satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is a must-try. So, grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a taste of Southern hospitality with this timeless dish.