Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Season chicken thighs generously with Lawry's seasoning salt, garlic powder, paprika, Sazon, and cracked black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- In a shallow dish, combine about 1/4 cup flour with any remaining seasoning. Coat each chicken thigh in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Carefully flip chicken thighs and brown the other side for 5 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside, leaving drippings in pan.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the pan drippings. Once melted, add diced onion, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Saute for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until onions become translucent.
- Sprinkle in remaining flour (about 1/4 cup) and stir to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute until bubbly and lightly golden.
- Gradually pour in chicken stock while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Allow mixture to simmer gently, stirring frequently until thickened, about 4 to 6 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream until fully incorporated and gravy is smooth and velvety.
- Return seared chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the gravy. Bring to a gentle boil, then cover skillet with lid or aluminum foil.
- Transfer covered skillet to preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165 degrees F and is tender.
- Carefully uncover skillet and spoon gravy over chicken thighs. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Chicken must reach 165 degrees F for food safety. Pat chicken dry before seasoning for best browning. Don't rush the roux - a light golden color is perfect. For gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour blend. Drumsticks can be substituted but may need additional 10 minutes cooking time. Gravy can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and reheated gently. Yellow onions or shallots work as substitutes for white onion. Half-and-half can replace heavy cream for lighter gravy. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
