soul smothered chicken recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best soul smothered chicken recipe

Soul smothered chicken is a dish that has been a staple in many Southern households for generations. I first fell in love with this recipe when I was a young mother, looking for ways to make a delicious and satisfying meal for my family. The combination of tender chicken, rich gravy, and flavorful seasonings is a match made in heaven.

My kids would always beg me to make this for them, and now that they’re grown, they still request it whenever they come home. There’s something about the way the chicken absorbs all the flavors of the sauce that just makes it irresistible. And the best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make, which is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. I’ve served it at family gatherings, potlucks, and even at church functions, and it’s always a hit. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of protein and veggies.

My husband loves it because it’s so comforting and reminds him of his grandmother’s cooking. As for me, I love it because it’s just so darn delicious! I could eat it every day and never get tired of it.

In fact, I’ve been known to make extra just so I can freeze some for later. It’s one of those recipes that’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want something hearty and satisfying for yourself.

Soul Smothered Chicken

4.6 from 1666 votes

This soul smothered chicken recipe is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy. The chicken is coated in a seasoned flour mixture and cooked until golden brown, then smothered in a savory sauce made with onions, garlic, and tomatoes.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 lbs chicken pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

For the Sauce

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3Shake off any excess flour.
4Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5Add the coated chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
6Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
7In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
8Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
9Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
10Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
11Season with salt and pepper to taste.
12Return the chicken pieces to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top to smother them.
13Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
14The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
15Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
16Serve the soul smothered chicken hot, with the sauce spooned over the top.
17Enjoy with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or rice.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2.5g❤️Cholesterol: 73mg🧂Sodium: 1000mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier version, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. You can also use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken pieces.

Watch Video Of How Soul Smothered Chicken Works

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – whether you’re serving it at home with your family or taking it to a potluck event. And because it freezes so well, you can easily whip up a batch whenever you need one.

My husband loves how comforting this dish is – he says it reminds him of his grandmother’s cooking when he was growing up. As for me?

Well, let’s just say I’m hooked on that rich gravy… and who wouldn’t be?

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Soul Smothered Chicken

What is soul smothered chicken?

Soul smothered chicken is a traditional Southern dish that involves slow-cooking chicken in a rich, flavorful gravy made with ingredients like onions, bell peppers, garlic, and spices. The dish gets its name from the process of ‘smothering’ the chicken under all those delicious toppings.

Is soul smothered chicken healthy?

While it may seem like an indulgent dish due to its rich gravy, soul smothered chicken can actually be quite healthy if made with lean protein sources and plenty of vegetables. Just be mindful of portion sizes and use low-sodium broth to keep sodium levels in check.

How long does soul smothered chicken take to cook?

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it cooks slowly over low heat, allowing you to prepare other meals or attend to other tasks while dinner cooks itself. A large piece of chicken will typically take around 30-40 minutes to cook through.

Can I make soul smothered chicken in advance?

Yes! This recipe makes great leftovers that can be refrigerated or frozen for later use. Simply thaw and reheat as needed – you can even serve it straight from the fridge if you’re short on time.

Is soul smothered chicken spicy?

You can adjust the level of heat in this recipe by adding more or less cayenne pepper (or omitting it altogether). If you prefer milder flavors, simply reduce or omit the amount used.

Similar Posts