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Smothered Chicken

Smothered Chicken is a Southern comfort food classic.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southern American

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 5 strips beef bacon halal-friendly substitute
  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • ½ cup vegetable oil for frying

Chicken Dredge

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup plain or Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • ¾ teaspoon black pepper

For the Gravy

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • cups chicken broth
  • 1 beef bouillon cube
  • cup half and half
  • 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • ¼ teaspoon ground sage
  • 2 –3 drops Kitchen Bouquet optional

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley chopped

Instructions
 

  • In a shallow dish, combine flour, breadcrumbs, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
  • Cook the beef bacon in a large skillet over medium-low heat until crispy.
  • Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and reserve 2–4 tablespoons of the drippings.
  • Slice each chicken breast horizontally into two thinner cutlets.
  • Cover with plastic wrap and pound to approximately ¾-inch thickness.
  • Pat the chicken dry and coat thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture.
  • Add reserved drippings and enough vegetable oil to the skillet to partially cover the chicken.
  • Heat over medium-high heat.
  • Fry the chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
  • Transfer the chicken to a plate.
  • Carefully remove the oil from the skillet, leaving any browned bits behind.
  • Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat.
  • Gradually whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux.
  • Slowly add the chicken broth while whisking continuously.
  • Add the half and half and continue whisking until smooth.
  • Stir in bouillon, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, and sage.
  • Bring the gravy to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  • Add Kitchen Bouquet if desired for a deeper color.
  • Return the chicken to the skillet along with any juices.
  • Chop the cooked beef bacon and sprinkle over the chicken.
  • Partially cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Garnish the Smothered Chicken with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Turkey bacon can also be used as a halal-friendly substitute.
  • For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, biscuits, or roasted vegetables.
  • Fresh thyme can replace dried thyme if available.