Are you a comfort food lover looking for new ways to satisfy your cravings? Look no further! Smothered chicken thighs are a classic comfort food dish that can be elevated in countless ways. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 delicious smothered chicken thigh recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance.
From traditional Southern-style smothered chicken thighs with gravy to more modern twists like creamy mushroom and spinach, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and savory or light and tangy, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, sharpen those knives, and get ready to smother those chicken thighs!
**Classic Southern Smothered Chicken Thighs with Gravy**
In this article, we’ll explore the many ways to make a classic dish like smothered chicken thighs truly special. From the simplest, most comforting recipes to more complex and indulgent variations, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you.
Classic Southern Smothered Chicken Thighs with Gravy
This beloved Southern classic is a staple of comfort food, where tender chicken thighs are smothered in a rich, savory gravy. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal fuss, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken thighs with paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Add the chicken broth and heavy cream or half-and-half, whisking to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon some of the gravy over them.
7. Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Smothered Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and creamy dish featuring tender chicken thighs smothered in a flavorful mushroom sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add chicken thighs and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, chicken broth, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the chicken and mushrooms in the skillet.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smothered Chicken Thighs with Onions and Peppers
Smothered Chicken Thighs with Onions and Peppers: A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until they’re tender, about 10 minutes.
6. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon some of the onion-pepper mixture over each thigh.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Bacon Smothered Chicken Thighs
This comforting recipe combines crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and juicy chicken thighs for a satisfying dinner that’s sure to please. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Sprinkle the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper over the chicken thighs.
6. Top each thigh with a spoonful of shredded cheese and some crispy bacon pieces.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Smothered Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this creamy, aromatic dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and breadcrumbs.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken thigh into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle parmesan cheese evenly.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smothered Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Artichokes
Moist chicken thighs smothered in a rich spinach and artichoke sauce make for a comforting and flavorful meal. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic, chopped artichoke hearts, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted.
5. Place the chicken thighs back in the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over each thigh.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Smothered Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy cajun-inspired dish featuring smothered chicken thighs. This recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning and hot sauce.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
7. Stir in Cajun-hot sauce mixture and diced tomatoes.
8. Return chicken to the skillet and smother with the spicy tomato mixture.
9. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smothered Chicken Thighs in White Wine Sauce
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines tender chicken thighs with a velvety white wine sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes or until browned on both sides.
5. Pour in white wine and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until reduced by half.
6. Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and chopped parsley (if using). Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
BBQ Smothered Chicken Thighs with Caramelized Onions
Succulent chicken thighs smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, topped with crispy caramelized onions – this recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with BBQ sauce and sprinkle with brown sugar.
5. Top each thigh with a spoonful of caramelized onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smothered Chicken Thighs with Creamy Dijon Sauce
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this rich and flavorful dish, featuring tender chicken thighs smothered in a creamy Dijon sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Top with sliced onion and minced garlic.
5. In the same skillet, combine chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Pour sauce over chicken and onions in the baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce is bubbly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smothered Chicken Thighs with Sundried Tomatoes and Basil
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and aromatic dish, featuring tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich sundried tomato and basil sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add sundried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
5. Add chicken thighs to the skillet, skin side down. Cook for 5 minutes, or until browned.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped basil.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smothered Chicken Thighs in Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Moist chicken thighs smothered in a rich and creamy alfredo sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. This simple recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and pour cream over the top.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and flour over the sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce is bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smothered Chicken Thighs with Roasted Garlic and Herbs
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe, featuring tender thighs smothered in a rich garlic and herb sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the garlic cloves on one half of the sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and thyme.
3. Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large skillet, heat chicken broth over medium-high heat. Add the roasted garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side up. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smothered Chicken Thighs in Rich Red Wine Reduction
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and savory recipe featuring tender chicken thighs smothered in a deep red wine reduction. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic, onion, and thyme to skillet. Cook until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in red wine and bring to a simmer.
6. Return chicken thighs to skillet and spoon some of the sauce over each thigh.
7. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smothered Chicken Thighs with Caramelized Apples and Sage
This recipe combines the tender flavors of chicken thighs with the sweet, caramelized goodness of apples and the earthy warmth of sage. A perfect fall-inspired dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add apples and cook for 10-12 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and chopped sage.
4. Add olive oil to the skillet and sear chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and spoon apple mixture over top.
6. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smothered Chicken Thighs with Gouda and Caramelized Onions
This comforting dish combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, melted Gouda cheese, and tender chicken thighs. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gouda cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet with the onions and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove from the oven and top each thigh with Gouda cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smothered Chicken Thighs in Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
This classic comfort dish combines juicy chicken thighs with a rich and flavorful tomato sauce, infused with the sweetness of basil. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 sprigs of fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; brown the chicken on both sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chopped tomatoes, heavy cream, and butter. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Return chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over each piece. Sprinkle with chopped basil.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Smothered Chicken Thighs with Wild Mushrooms and Thyme
This hearty dish is a perfect blend of savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic thyme. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Add sliced mushrooms, garlic, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
4. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan and pour the mushroom mixture over the chicken.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 18 scrumptious smothered chicken thigh recipes! From classic Southern comfort food to creamy mushroom and cheesy bacon, there’s something for every taste bud. Try adding roasted garlic and herbs, caramelized apples and sage, or even sundried tomatoes and basil for a flavorful twist. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy Cajun or rich red wine reduction, these mouthwatering recipes will become your new go-to comfort food. So grab your apron and get cooking with these delicious smothered chicken thigh recipes!
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