Introduction
Looking for a comforting and delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion? This recipe for savory chicken thighs cooked in a rich gravy will delight your taste buds and warm your heart. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or even roasted vegetables. Let’s dive into the details!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Chicken thighs (about 4 to 6 pieces)
– Flour (1 cup)
– Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
– Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
– Paprika (1 teaspoon)
– Salt (to taste)
– Pepper (to taste)
– Oil (for frying)
– Onion, diced (1 medium)
– Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
– Chicken broth (2 cups)
– Milk (1 cup)
– Parsley (for garnish)
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 to 6 people
This easy-to-follow recipe results in flavorful and tender chicken thighs nestled in a luscious gravy, making it a perfect addition to your dinner table. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Flour Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly with the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even layer.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on both sides. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage. Once browned, remove and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet, add the diced onions and sauté until they turn a golden color.
Step 5: Create the Gravy
Whisk in the reserved flour mixture and the minced garlic. Cook for a couple of minutes to develop the flavor.
Step 6: Add Liquids
Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously until the mixture begins to thicken, forming a gravy.
Step 7: Combine Chicken and Gravy
Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the gravy.
Step 8: Simmer
Cover the skillet and let it simmer on medium-low heat for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 9: Garnish
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or your preferred side.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the seasoning mixture for added flavor, such as thyme or cayenne pepper for heat.
Cook techniques
Seasoning the Flour
Combining flour with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper creates a flavorful coating for the chicken thighs. This adds depth and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Browning the Chicken
Searing the chicken thighs in oil until golden not only develops a rich color but also creates a base of flavor that will enhance the gravy later on.
Sautéing the Onions
Cooking diced onions until golden brown in the same skillet helps to deglaze the pan, capturing the flavorful remnants from the chicken, which will be incorporated into the gravy.
Creating the Gravy
Whisking the reserved flour mixture with minced garlic, chicken broth, and milk thickens the sauce, resulting in a creamy and flavorful gravy to serve with the chicken.
Simmering the Chicken
Covering the skillet and allowing the chicken to simmer in the gravy ensures it cooks through while absorbing flavors, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
Garnishing
Sprinkling fresh parsley on top before serving adds a pop of color and a refreshing flavor that enhances the presentation and overall taste of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or drumsticks, but be mindful of the cooking times, as they may vary.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I make the gravy without flour?
Yes, you can use cornstarch as a thickening agent instead of flour, but ensure to mix it with cold water before adding to avoid clumping.
How can I adjust the spice level?
Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of paprika, or add other spices like cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for more heat.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and gravy in an airtight container. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
This flavorful chicken dish, enriched with a creamy gravy, offers a delightful combination of spices and ingredients that will surely satisfy your taste buds. The method of browning the chicken and then simmering it in the gravy not only enhances the flavors but also ensures a tender and juicy result. It’s an easy yet impressive meal suitable for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Serve the chicken thighs with a side of roasted vegetables for a nutritious complement.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pair the dish with garlic bread to soak up the remaining gravy for a complete meal experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Use the same gravy base and replace the chicken with pork chops or beef for a different twist on the recipe.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Incorporate mushrooms or peas into the gravy for additional texture and flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Consider a side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch to balance the richness of the dish.
