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Stovetop Smothered Chicken

A comforting and nostalgic dish featuring tender chicken pieces smothered in a luscious bacon-flavored gravy, perfect for family gatherings and weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Southern
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 large chicken breasts, halved and pounded to ¾” thick Ensure even cooking and tender texture.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Adds a depth of flavor.
  • 1 tsp onion powder For extra savory notes.
  • ¾ tsp black pepper Adjust to your spice preference.
  • Dash cayenne pepper Optional kick.
  • Reserved seasoned flour From dredging chicken.
For the Gravy
  • 4 tbsp butter Unsalted recommended for better control of saltiness.
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour To create that luscious gravy.
  • 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth Flavorful base without excess salt.
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream Adds creaminess and richness.
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce For complexity.
  • Poultry seasoning, to taste Perfect when homemade.
For Cooking
  • ½ cup vegetable oil High smoke point for frying.
  • 4–6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled Because everything’s better with bacon!
  • 2–4 tbsp bacon drippings To enhance the gravy flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice the chicken breasts in half and pound them to ¾” thickness to ensure faster and even cooking.
  2. In a bowl, combine flour with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne. Dredge each chicken piece thoroughly, shaking off excess.
Cooking the Bacon
  1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and reserve 2–4 tbsp of drippings in the skillet while discarding the rest.
Frying the Chicken
  1. In the same skillet, heat the reserved bacon drippings along with vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Fry the chicken pieces for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken and set aside.
Making the Gravy
  1. Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet and let it melt.
  2. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until it’s a light golden color.
  3. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Then add heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and poultry seasoning. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
Smothering the Chicken
  1. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top. Allow it to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, just enough to heat through and combine flavors.
  2. Before serving, sprinkle crispy bacon and chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing (up to 3 months), but be aware that the consistency of the gravy may change upon thawing.