Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these smothered chicken legs! This recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with a rich, savory gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken legs for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Gravy
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Smother the Chicken
Return the seared chicken legs to the skillet, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then cover the skillet and transfer it to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve the smothered chicken legs hot, alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. This delicious dish is perfect for a healthy meal or a satisfying quick dinner idea.
Cooking Tips for Extra Deliciousness:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken legs in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can simmer the sauce uncovered for a few minutes after the chicken is cooked.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken; work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
Variations:
- Spicy Smothered Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the gravy for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Smothered Chicken: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream to the gravy during the last 10 minutes of baking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Vegetable Smothered Chicken: Add other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini to the skillet along with the onions and bell peppers.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This recipe for smothered chicken legs offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a comforting classic. The combination of juicy chicken and flavorful gravy makes it a perfect example of simple yet satisfying homemade cooking. Enjoy!