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Chicken thighs cooked in a creamy brown sauce inside an open Instant Pot, sitting on a marbled kitchen countertop—classic comfort food with this easy smothered chicken recipe.
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5 from 3 votes

Smothered Chicken – Instant Pot

Tender, seasoned chicken smothered in a rich onion gravy, all made quickly and easily in the Instant Pot. This Southern comfort food classic is perfect with mashed potatoes, rice, or cornbread.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Soul Food
Keyword: smothered chicken, soul food food, soul food recipe
Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 6 –8 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (or legs)
  • 2 Tbsp vegetable or canola oil
  • 1 medium onion sliced
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk optional
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • Seasonings:
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  • Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Set Instant Pot to Sauté, add oil, and brown chicken 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  • Add onions, sauté until soft, then stir in butter and flour. Cook 1–2 minutes, whisk in stock until smooth.
  • Return chicken, nestle in gravy, secure lid, and cook on High Pressure for 12 minutes.
  • Let naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release. Stir in cream if desired, adjust seasoning, and serve smothered with gravy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 340kcal