Craving a dish that's both incredibly flavorful and wonderfully comforting? Look no further than this soul-smothered chicken recipe! This easy recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken smothered in a rich, savory gravy – the perfect embodiment of homemade cooking and a fantastic option for a quick dinner idea. It's a delicious dish that's surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks, and is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience a taste of pure comfort food bliss!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or mashed potatoes (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Searing the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Building the Flavor Base
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers 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: Creating the Smothering Sauce
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), smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Smothering the Chicken
Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Stir in the butter just before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve the soul-smothered chicken over cooked rice or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the chicken in batches to ensure it browns properly and doesn't steam.
- Low and slow: Simmering the chicken gently in the sauce ensures it remains tender and juicy.
- Taste and adjust: Season the dish to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper as needed.
- Thicken the sauce: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce it.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms.
- Use different peppers: Experiment with different types of peppers to change the flavor profile.
- Add some heat: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra spice.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This soul-smothered chicken recipe is a true testament to the deliciousness of simple, healthy meals. It's a perfect example of how easy recipes can be both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy this delicious and comforting dish!