Transform your leftovers into a comforting, flavor-packed meal with this irresistible Smothered Chicken using leftover chicken. In just 30 minutes, this recipe brings together tender chicken in a rich, creamy gravy made with sautéed onions, garlic, and a hint of paprika for a subtle smoky depth. The velvety sauce, thickened with a simple roux and infused with chicken broth and milk, envelops the chicken perfectly, making it an ideal pairing for fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this budget-friendly dish makes the most of your fridge staples without sacrificing on heartwarming flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of brightness, and savor a satisfying meal that feels like a hug in every bite.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt completely.
Stir in the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until it softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic and stir well. Cook the flour for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste, stirring constantly.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to ensure there are no lumps. Follow with the milk, continuing to whisk to create a creamy base.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and add paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens.
Add the leftover chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken pieces evenly with the creamy sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken warm through, about 5 minutes.
Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve hot over cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or your choice of accompaniment.
Calories |
1968 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 59.8 g | 77% | |
| Saturated Fat | 27.8 g | 139% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 546 mg | 182% | |
| Sodium | 4169 mg | 181% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 158.9 g | 58% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.3 g | 19% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.2 g | ||
| Protein | 185.7 g | 371% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.5 mcg | 17% | |
| Calcium | 526 mg | 40% | |
| Iron | 10.8 mg | 60% | |
| Potassium | 2558 mg | 54% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.